6xxx · Al-Mg-Si · ASTM B209 / EN AW-6061

6061-T6 Aluminum

The most common general-purpose structural aluminum. Balanced strength, weldability, and machinability. Density 2.70 g/cm³.

Density
2.70 g/cm³
2700 kg/m³
Yield (Rp0.2)
275 MPa
typical
Tensile (Rm)
310 MPa
typical
Elongation
12%
A
Modulus E
69 GPa
elastic
Hardness
95 HB
T6
α thermal
23.6×10⁻⁶/K
expansion
k thermal
167 W/m·K
conductivity

Density vs the 2.70 myth

True density for 6061-T6 Aluminum is 2.70 g/cm³. Using 2.70 introduces a 0.00% mass error.

1 m² × 10 mm plate (correct ρ)
27.00 kg
Same plate if ρ = 2.70
27.00 kg
Weldability
Good
Machinability
Good
Corrosion resistance
Good

Typical applications

  • Structural frames
  • Bike frames
  • Machine bases
  • Aerospace fittings

Engineering pitfalls

  • Weld heat-affected zone loses T6 properties unless re-heat-treated
  • Not as strong as 7075 for critical high-stress parts

Compare & related

Values are typical handbook figures for the stated temper (T6) and are intended for preliminary engineering. Production design must use certified material data and applicable design codes. Standard reference: ASTM B209 / EN AW-6061.

AluCalc 2026-07-12