6061-T6 — Machining & Properties
Typical properties, what 6061-T6 is like on a machine tool, what it gets used for, and the tolerance and finishes we hold on it — from a shop that actually machines it, not a datasheet aggregator. Every figure here drives our own calculators.
Machining 6061-T6
Machinability is rated excellent — one of the friendlier materials on a machine tool — expect efficient cycle times and good surface finish at sensible cost. Aluminium has a high thermal expansion coefficient (~23 × 10⁻⁶ /°C). On large features, allow parts and tooling to reach thermal equilibrium before inspection.
Our standard achievable tolerance on 6061-T6 is ±0.010mm under normal conditions, with tighter tolerances on critical features agreed at quotation. Standard finishes: Anodise Type II/III, bead blast, powder coat. Full material traceability with MTR and CoC documentation on every order.
Typical applications
General engineering, robotics frames, electronics enclosures, automotive.
Use 6061-T6 in our free tools
Other aluminium grades we machine: 1050A H14 · 2024-T4 · 5083-H111 · 6082-T6 — all 50 grades.
6061-T6 — FAQ
What is the density of 6061-T6?
2.7 g/cm³ (typical). That is 2700 kg/m³ — our metal weight calculator uses exactly this figure for 6061-T6.
What is the tensile strength of 6061-T6?
Typically 310 MPa. Treat it as a typical value, not a specification — the Material Test Report supplied with your order states the actual certified figures for the batch.
Is 6061-T6 easy to machine?
Its machinability is rated excellent — one of the friendlier materials on a machine tool — expect efficient cycle times and good surface finish at sensible cost.
What is 6061-T6 used for?
Typical applications: General engineering, robotics frames, electronics enclosures, automotive.
What tolerance can be held when machining 6061-T6?
Our standard achievable tolerance on 6061-T6 is ±0.010mm under normal conditions (ISO 2768-f general tolerancing). Tighter tolerances on critical features can be agreed at quotation for specific geometries.
Can Dalloway machine 6061-T6?
Yes — we machine 6061-T6 in-house on 3, 4 and 5-axis milling and CNC turning, from single prototypes to production, with MTR and CoC documentation standard. Typical finishes: Anodise Type II/III, bead blast, powder coat.
Send Your Drawing for a Same-Day Quote
Talk directly to the engineers who will machine your parts — no account managers, no trading-company markups. Complimentary DFM review with every enquiry.