6xxx Series Aluminum Sheets Overview (6061, 6063, 6082)
The 6xxx series aluminum sheets belong to the Al-Mg-Si alloy family, with typical grades including 6061, 6063, and 6082. Unlike many other aluminum series, 6 series aluminum plates are mainly supplied in T temper conditions, especially T5 and T6.
So, what is the difference between 6063 T5 and 6063 T6 aluminum sheet?
Before explaining the differences between 6063-T5 and 6063-T6, it is important to understand two key technical terms.
Key Concepts for 6063 Aluminum Temper: Aging and Quenching
Aging in 6xxx Series Aluminum
Aging refers to the process of releasing and stabilizing internal stress within metal materials. This process improves dimensional stability and mechanical performance.
Quenching in 6061 / 6063 Aluminum
Quenching is a heat treatment method in which aluminum is heated to a specific temperature and then rapidly cooled to achieve the required hardness and strength.
For 2xxx, 6xxx, and 7xxx series aluminum sheets, quenching significantly increases mechanical strength.
Difference Between 6063 T5 and 6063 T6 Aluminum Sheet
6063 T5 Aluminum Sheet
For 6063-T5 aluminum, the material is air-cooled immediately after extrusion from the press. This cooling method allows the aluminum to reach the required hardness level, typically Webster hardness 8–12.
6063 T6 Aluminum Sheet
In contrast, 6063-T6 aluminum undergoes water quenching immediately after extrusion, resulting in faster cooling and higher hardness, generally Webster hardness 13.5 or above.
Natural Aging vs Artificial Aging in 6xxx Aluminum
Air cooling takes longer-usually 2 to 3 days-and is known as natural aging
Water quenching is much faster and is classified as artificial aging
The primary difference between T5 and T6 tempers lies in strength.
T6 aluminum offers higher strength than T5
Other properties remain largely similar
From a pricing perspective, due to the more complex processing requirements, T6 aluminum sheets are slightly more expensive per ton than T5 aluminum sheets.
GNEE supplies both 6063-T5 and 6063-T6 aluminum sheets, helping customers choose the most cost-effective temper for their application.
What Is Internal Stress in Aluminum Sheets?
During aluminum sheet production, heating and extrusion can lead to uneven crystal density, preventing complete energy release. This stored energy inside the material is known as internal stress.
During downstream processing-such as heating, bending, deep drawing, stretching, or forming-internal stress may be released unevenly, causing issues like:
Sheet bending
Surface waviness
Corrugation
Uneven flatness
Therefore, eliminating internal stress before further processing is essential.
Internal Stress Relief Process for 6061 and 6082 Aluminum (Tx51 Temper)
The internal stress relief process is relatively straightforward. After the aluminum sheet leaves the production line, manufacturers apply an additional step where the sheet is mechanically stretched. This stretching process releases the internal energy stored within the aluminum.
Aluminum sheets that have undergone internal stress relief are designated with the Tx51 temper, such as:
6061-T651 aluminum sheet
6082-T651 aluminum plate
As a professional aluminum supplier, GNEE provides 6xxx series aluminum sheets in T5, T6, and Tx51 tempers, ensuring optimal performance, dimensional stability, and processing reliability for industrial and architectural applications.
| 6063 Aluminum Applications | ||
| Industry | Feature | Applications |
| Construction | High strength and Good corrosion resistance | Windows&Door, door handles, curtain walls, handrial, etc |
| Cars and motorcycles | Light weight | Car door frames, roof racks, seat frames, etc |
| Electronic | Thermal Conductivity | Electronic equipment enclosures, heat sinks and electronic cables |
| Decoration and homewares | Common features | Decorative items, furniture, lighting accessories,etc |