6063 is often called
architectural Aluminium for two reasons - first, it has a
surface finish that is far smoother than the other commercially available alloys, and second, its strength is significantly less (roughly half the strength of 6061), making it suited for applications where strength is not the foremost consideration. 6063 is rated as "Good" for forming and
cold working operations, "Excellent" for anodizing, and "Fair" for machining.
General Information
Principal Design Features
This is generally considered to be an extrusion alloy that is heat treatable for strengthening.
Applications
Commonly used in the manufacture of furniture, windows, stair rails, and in pipe railing. Commonly used in architectural extrusions.
Machinability
Machinability is considered to be average for this alloy.
Forming
Forming ability, either hot or cold, is good.
Welding
The alloy is readily welded by all of the conventional methods. Filler rod should be of the same alloy or AL 4043 alloy.
Heat Treatment
Solution heat treat at 970°F for 1 hour followed by water quench. This produces T 4 temper. Other tempers are accomplished by aging.
Forging
Hot forging may be done in the range of 500°F to 950°F.
Hot Working
Hot working, as with forging, may be done at temperatures above 500°F up to maximum of 950°F.
Cold WorkingCold working characteristics are good for all conventional forming methods.
Annealing
Anneal at 775°F for 3 hours and use controlled cooling at rate of 50°F per hour down to 500°F. Then air cool.
Aging
Aging is done at a temperature of 350°F for 8 hours for T 6 and T 62 tempers. Age at 360°F for 3 hours to get T5 temper.
Hardening
Hardens due to aging heat treatment and cold working. See "Aging".
Other Physical Props
Electrical conductivity 50% of copper.
Other Mechanical Props
Shear strength for various tempers is: O temper 10, ksi . T 5 temper 17 ksi. T 83 temper 22 ksi
