Alloy comparison
6061-T6 Aluminum vs 7075-T6 Aluminum
general structural vs aerospace strength
Side-by-side handbook properties for preliminary material selection. Green values mark the preferable metric for that row (higher strength, lower density, better fabrication rating).
6061-T6 Aluminum
6xxx · ASTM B209 / EN AW-6061
The most common general-purpose structural aluminum. Balanced strength, weldability, and machinability. Density 2.70 g/cm³.
Density
2.70 g/cm³
Yield
275 MPa
7075-T6 Aluminum
7xxx · ASTM B209 / EN AW-7075
Very high strength zinc alloy. Density ~2.81 g/cm³ — a 2.70 assumption underestimates weight by ~4%. Do not weld for structural joints.
Density
2.81 g/cm³
Yield
505 MPa
| Property | 6061-T6 Aluminum | 7075-T6 Aluminum |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 2.70 g/cm³ | 2.81 g/cm³ |
| Error if using 2.70 | 0.0% | +4.1% |
| Yield strength | 275 MPa | 505 MPa |
| Tensile strength | 310 MPa | 570 MPa |
| Elongation | 12% | 11% |
| Modulus E | 69 GPa | 72 GPa |
| Weldability | Good | Poor |
| Machinability | Good | Fair |
| Corrosion | Good | Fair |
| 1 m² × 10 mm plate | 27.00 kg | 28.10 kg |
Quick selection guide
- Choose 6061-T6 Aluminum when you prioritize structural frames and bike frames, and welding is acceptable.
- Choose 7075-T6 Aluminum when you prioritize aerospace fittings and high-stress tooling (higher yield: 505 vs 275 MPa).
- Weight difference on a 1 m² × 10 mm plate: 1.10 kg (6061-T6 Aluminum is lighter).