The difference between aluminum alloy 6061 and 6082

May 30,2025

Element	6061 Aluminum Alloy (%)	6082 Aluminum Alloy (%)
Si	0.4 - 0.8	0.7 - 1.3
Mg	0.8 - 1.2	0.6 - 1.2
Cu	0.15 - 0.4	≤0.1
Mn	≤0.15	0.4 - 1.0
Al	Balance	Balance

Key differences: 6082 has a higher silicon content, providing better strengthening effects. Manganese in 6082 enhances its corrosion resistance. Although the copper in 6061 can improve strength through strengthening, it slightly weakens the corrosion resistance.

II. Mechanical Property Comparison

Property	6061 Aluminum Alloy	6082 Aluminum Alloy
Tensile Strength	260 - 310 MPa (T6)	290 - 350 MPa (T6)
Yield Strength	240 - 270 MPa (T6)	250 - 300 MPa (T6)
Elongation	8 - 12%	6 - 10%
Hardness (HB)	95 - 110	100 - 120

6082 exhibits higher strength, while 6061 offers better plasticity and impact resistance.

III. Processability Comparison

Process	6061 Aluminum Alloy	6082 Aluminum Alloy
Extrusion	Excellent, suitable for complex profiles	Moderate, requires high temperature and pressure
Welding	Excellent, compatible with general welding processes	Requires special welding wires
Anodizing	Good surface treatment results	Slightly inferior to 6061

When processing 6082, attention should be paid to issues such as die sticking caused by silicon and oxide film formation due to manganese.

IV. Corrosion Resistance Comparison

· 6061 contains copper, so surface protection is required in humid environments.

· 6082, without copper and with manganese addition, has stronger resistance to marine and chemical corrosion.

V. Typical Application Scenarios

· 6061: Used for aircraft interiors, bicycle frames, and electronic product casings, with advantages in easy processing and aesthetic surface finishes.

· 6082: Applied in high - speed rail car bodies, ship decks, and bridge trusses, suitable for heavy - load and harsh environments.

VI. How to Choose?

· Choose 6061 for scenarios requiring high plasticity, complex processing, and medium - load applications.

· Choose 6082 for high - load, highly corrosive, and long - term weather - resistant requirements.

Conclusion

Grade	Core Advantages	Typical Scenarios	Precautions
6061	Easy to process, aesthetic	Light - load structures, decoration	Protection needed in corrosive environments
6082	High strength, corrosion - resistant	Heavy - load, outdoor projects	Higher requirements for processing techniques

Select based on strength, environmental conditions, and cost requirements. 6082 is suitable for high - strength and corrosion - resistant scenarios, while 6061 emphasizes processing convenience.

aluminum truss