6061 Aluminum Tubing

Mostly, bicycle frames are made with 6061 aluminum tubing. Other than this type, 7005, 6066 and 6069 alloys are used for the purpose, but 6061 is the most suitable type for the task. Another reason for the fewer usage of 6066 and 6069 is they are not produced enough to have a continuous supply to keep the industry functioning. In addition, 'Scandium' is taken to produce bicycle frames, but it also has a high quantity aluminum alloys as well. The products made of Scandium are not suitable for the general market, as they are highly expensive than other products made of 6061 alloys.

On the other hand, aluminum tubing 7075 and 2014 are also available but they are stronger than 6061 and 7005 types making it is highly impossible to weld them which is a priority when making bicycle frames. The 6061 aluminum tubing has properties of aluminum, magnesium and silicon and it is stronger than the 7005 aluminum tubing, which has properties of aluminum, zinc and alloy. Nevertheless, for some industry the alloy 7005 is more suitable than the 6061-alloy type.

The tensile strength of 6061 aluminum tubing is 45,000 psi and its yield strength is 40,000 psi. When the yield strength is higher, the products made from it could be deformed when welding. When making bicycle frames, it is highly important to perfectly weld well. To achieve it, shapes of the tubes and thickness are also paramount.

With 6061 aluminum tubing, it is easy to make shapes like ovals and tapering and it is also cost effective. Nevertheless, a product of 6061 is needed to undergo heat-treatment after the manufacture whereas other alloys could be air-cooled. Despite the said factor, 6061 Aluminum tubing has come to the forefront in recent times. The unsuitability and the less availability of other alloys as well as its friendly response to welding have taken 6061 to this far to enjoy today’s high demand of the product.

In summing up, aluminum is one of the most versatile metals in the World and has been in the manufacturing arena for centuries. Many products are being produced of aluminum and now it is used to produce high end value products such as aircrafts, ships, tools of security forces, high-rise structures etc. Almost every residence we see today has frames made of aluminum and appliances as well as furniture. Aluminum is graded to a variety of standards. The 6061 one such grade and the 6061 aluminum tubing is excellent for using products that needs much welding tasks such as bicycle frames.

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