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Aluminum

6082-T6

6082-T6 is a medium-strength structural aluminum, effectively Europe's counterpart to 6061, with 310 MPa tensile and 260 MPa yield, good corrosion resistance, and high thermal conductivity. At 2.7 g/cm3 it balances strength, weldability, and excellent machinability at 4.0/5, making it a default choice for structural extrusions, frames, and machined load-bearing parts across European supply chains.

How 6082-T6 machines

6082-T6 machines well at 4.0/5, cutting cleanly with sharp tools, good chip control, and crisp finishes typical of heat-treatable 6000-series alloys. It holds tolerances reliably and anodizes cleanly. As with 6061, expect predictable, fast metal removal; it is a comfortable, well-behaved alloy for CNC structural and frame components.

Manufacturing & processing

6082 is supplied as extrusions, plate, and sheet for extrusion, CNC, and sheet-metal work. It welds well, though, being heat-treatable, the weld zone loses temper and strength and may need post-weld heat treatment for full properties. It anodizes cleanly for corrosion protection and appearance, suiting architectural and structural framing.

Typical applications

6082 is used for structural extrusions, frames, beams, bridges, trusses, and machined load-bearing parts, particularly in Europe where it is the standard structural grade. Its strength, machinability, and corrosion resistance suit transport, construction, and machinery framing where 6061 would be specified in North America.

When to choose it

Choose 6082 for structural extrusions and machined load-bearing parts, especially within European specifications where it is the standard. It is functionally interchangeable with 6061 for most uses. For marine welded structures choose 5083; for thin-wall complex profiles consider 6005A or 6063. 6082 wins as the all-round European structural aluminum.

Suitable surface finishes

Common finishes for 6082-T6: Type II anodizing, chromate/Alodine, powder coating, bead blasting. Use the finish selector →

FAQ

Is 6082 the same as 6061?
They are close counterparts. 6082 is the common European structural grade, 6061 the North American one, with similar strength, corrosion resistance, and machinability. 6082 has slightly higher manganese for grain control and marginally higher strength. For most structural and machined applications they are practically interchangeable.
Does welding weaken 6082-T6?
Yes. As a heat-treatable T6 alloy, 6082 loses temper in the heat-affected zone during welding, reducing strength there. Designs account for this softened zone, or parts are post-weld heat treated to restore properties. For structures needing full as-welded strength, non-heat-treatable 5083 is preferred.
Does 6082 anodize well?
Yes. Unlike high-magnesium marine grades, 6082 anodizes cleanly to a consistent finish, giving good corrosion protection and acceptable appearance. This makes it suitable for architectural and visible structural framing where both load capacity and a clean anodized surface are required.

Property values are typical/nominal for early guidance and vary by temper, grade, supplier and heat treatment. Confirm critical specs against a certified datasheet or with an mfgiq engineer.