Aluminum alloys can have very different mechanical, physical and corrosion properties, and very different behaviors in terms of surface treatments, welding, forming, etc. are concerned.

These differences are accomplished through the addition of different types, quantities and combinations of alloying elements and/or through temper differences. For example, elements such as lead, tin or bismuth can be added to improve machinability.

The 6xxx Series Alloys

Alloys in the 6xxx series, with their main alloying elements of silicon and magnesium, are strong and can be strengthened further by heat treatment. Their excellent combination of strength, formability, corrosion resistance and weldability results in their being used in many different applications.

About 6005/6005A Alloy

Alloy 6005/6005A has properties similar to those of alloys 6106 and 6082 and can sometimes be used interchangeably with them, but 6005/6005A has better extrusion characteristics.

The chemical compositions of 6005 and 6005A are different, however, and should not be confused. Alloy 6005 contains significantly higher amounts of silicon, which reduces the melting temperature and improves its extrudability.

Alloy 6005A differs from 6005 in manganese and chromium content. The additional chromium in 6005A reduces stress corrosion susceptibility and improves toughness, while the extra manganese improves strength as well as extrudability.

Alloy 6005 is similar to alloy 6061. When produced to a -T5 temper, it has the same minimum tensile and yield strength as 6061-T6 and better machinability and strength properties than 6063-T6. Alloy 6005A may also replace 6061 due to its better extrudability and surface appearance.

Both alloys have excellent bending properties but are not recommended for applications where the structure may be susceptible to impact or overloading. And, while they offer a better mill surface finish, it can be difficult to produce thin-wall complicated shapes in 6005/6005A.

Alloy 6005/6005A can be welded or brazed using various commercial methods, although the heat from welding can reduce strength. These alloys also offer good corrosion resistance and finishing characteristics, and respond well to common anodizing methods such as clear, clear and color dye, and hardcoat.

Applications of 6005/6005A

Typical applications for 6005 alloy include:

• Seamless and structural tubing
• Automotive connector stock
• Structural members 
• Ladder structures
• Hand rail tubing

Typical applications for 6005A alloy include:

• Truck, trailer, automotive, bus, and rail components
• Platforms, ladders, structures
• Building and construction applications
• Marine applications

Hydro Extrusion has extrusion presses throughout the U.S. and Canada. Our expert team is ready to assist you with custom solutions for unique applications, employing the latest technology for the design and manufacture of extrusion tooling, and is available with everything you need to go from drawing board to finished product.

We have the capacity to supply all shapes, sizes, alloys and tempers utilizing both direct and indirect extrusion methods. From standard and custom extrusions that require basic procedures (such as precision cutting, drilling, tapping or punching) to fully finished components and assemblies, we can satisfy all of your extrusion requirements in 6005 aluminum and other alloys. Visit us to find out how to utilize aluminum extrusions in your industry.