sales@dropforging.net6061 vs. 7075 Aluminum Forging
As you know, forging is better for applications. 6061 and 7075 are the two common used alloys in aluminum forging. When it comes to 6061 aluminum alloy or 7075 aluminum alloy for a forging project, it is necessary to understand their differences and applications. It saves you trouble when looking to balance performance with cost. For most general purposes, both alloys can get the job done. But the differences in composition, mechanical properties and cost can help you choose what fits your forging needs best.
The chemical differences between 6061 and 7075 aluminum forgings aren’t readily visible. Both contain magnesium, silicon, copper, iron, zinc, titanium, manganese and chromium. The difference is how much of each is contained in each.
6061 aluminum forging contains less zinc than 7075. Meaning that while 6061 aluminum forging provide superior welding abilities and workability, it doesn’t boast the same high strength and stress resistance as 7075.
Looking for more concrete numbers? We have those here, both in the T6 condition
General Mechanical Properties of 6061 (T6 Condition)
6061 Aluminum Forging
6061 is highly versatile and can be used for almost forging any component. Typical application of 6061 aluminum forgings like: Pipe fittings, automotive parts, cable lugs, ect. Consumer products such as bicycle frames and components, SCUBA tanks, fishing reels and small utility boats all benefit from the increased weldable nature and its ability to undergo hot forging.
Use 6061 aluminum forging when:
7075 aluminum forging is notable for its high strength-to-weight ratio and improved strength over 6061 aluminum forging. Because of this, 7075 aluminum forgings largely used in aerospace, marine and transportation industries. Any industry where high strength and light weight properties are critical, this alloy is preferred. High-end bicycle components, tool industries, airframes, and even military-grade including rifle receivers all heavily utilize 7075.
Use 7075 aluminum forgings when:
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Chemical Differences
The chemical differences between 6061 and 7075 aluminum forgings aren’t readily visible. Both contain magnesium, silicon, copper, iron, zinc, titanium, manganese and chromium. The difference is how much of each is contained in each.
6061 aluminum forging contains less zinc than 7075. Meaning that while 6061 aluminum forging provide superior welding abilities and workability, it doesn’t boast the same high strength and stress resistance as 7075.
Mechanical Properties
Looking for more concrete numbers? We have those here, both in the T6 condition
General Mechanical Properties of 6061 (T6 Condition)
- Tensile Strength – 45,000 psi
- Yield Point – 40,000 psi
- Brinell Hardness – 95
- Elongation at Break – 12%
- Shear Strength – 31,000 psi
- Thermal Conductivity – 170 W/m-K
- Strength to Weight Ratio: 115 kN-m/kg
- Tensile Strength – 83,000 psi
- Yield Point – 74,000 psi
- Brinell Hardness – 150
- Elongation at Break – 10%
- Shear Strength – 48,000 psi
- Thermal Conductivity – 130 W/m-K
- Strength to Weight Ratio: 196 kN-m/kg
Applications For 6061 VS 7075 Aluminum Forgings
6061 Aluminum Forging
6061 is highly versatile and can be used for almost forging any component. Typical application of 6061 aluminum forgings like: Pipe fittings, automotive parts, cable lugs, ect. Consumer products such as bicycle frames and components, SCUBA tanks, fishing reels and small utility boats all benefit from the increased weldable nature and its ability to undergo hot forging.
Use 6061 aluminum forging when:
- You need to do a lot of machining on the part
- You need to do a lot of welding on the project
- Cost is a main factor
7075 aluminum forging is notable for its high strength-to-weight ratio and improved strength over 6061 aluminum forging. Because of this, 7075 aluminum forgings largely used in aerospace, marine and transportation industries. Any industry where high strength and light weight properties are critical, this alloy is preferred. High-end bicycle components, tool industries, airframes, and even military-grade including rifle receivers all heavily utilize 7075.
Use 7075 aluminum forgings when:
- High strength and low weight are crucial
- The part will be exposed to a lot of heat
- The part will be exposed to a lot of friction and needs to be hard
- Cost is less of an issue
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