AlMgSi0.5 (EN AW 6060) – The standard alloy for aluminum profiles
The aluminum alloy AlMgSi0.5, known under the standard designation EN AW 6060, is one of the most commonly used alloys for extruded profiles. It combines good strength, excellent surface finish, outstanding corrosion resistance, and excellent formability.
EN AW 6060 is the European standard when it comes to aluminum profiles for construction, mechanical engineering, and design.
What is EN AW 6060 / AlMgSi0.5?
This alloy belongs to the group of aluminum-magnesium-silicon alloys (6000 series). It is heat-treatable and can be brought into various states through heat treatment, e.g., T5 or T66.
EN AW 6060 is considered the "all-rounder" among alloys for profiles and is characterized by good workability in extrusion processes.
Typical Chemical Composition
| Element | Share (%) |
|---|---|
| Magnesium (Mg) | 0.35 – 0.6 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.3 – 0.6 |
| Iron (Fe) | max. 0.3 |
| Manganese (Mn) | max. 0.1 |
| Zinc (Zn) | max. 0.1 |
| Aluminum (Al) | Rest |
Properties & Advantages of EN AW 6060
- Very good corrosion resistance – ideal for outdoor applications
- Good anodizing properties – for decorative or technical surfaces
- Medium strength – sufficient for load-bearing applications
- Excellent extrudability – ideal for complex cross-sections
- Good weldability & formability – for construction and assembly
Mechanical Properties (T66 Condition)
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 215 – 260 N/mm² |
| Yield Strength | 160 – 230 N/mm² |
| Hardness | 70 - 80 Brinell |
| Thermal Conductivity | approx. 1.86 W/cm °C |
Typical Applications of AlMgSi0.5 (EN AW 6060)
Architecture & Construction:
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Window frames, door profiles
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Facade elements, conservatories
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Privacy screens, railings
Mechanical & Plant Engineering:
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Housing profiles, fasteners
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Guide rails, support systems
Furniture & Interior Design:
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Frame constructions, table systems
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Design and visible profiles
Exhibition & Shop Fitting:
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Aluminum system profiles
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Lightweight frames & displays
EN AW 6060 vs. other aluminum alloys
| Feature | EN AW 6060 | EN AW 1050 |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion Protection | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Anodizability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Strength | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
| Extrudability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Weldability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Conclusion: EN AW 6060 is perfect for visually appealing profiles that also meet structural requirements.
Which products are made from EN AW 6060?
At alu-verkauf.de you will find a variety of products made from EN AW 6060, including:
- Aluminum profiles (T-, U-, Z-, L-profiles)
- Round tubes and square tubes
- Flat and angle profiles
- Custom-cut aluminum blanks
- Surfaces: raw, anodized, powder-coated
All products are cut to desired lengths and are ideal for construction, industry, or furniture manufacturing.
Conclusion: EN AW 6060 – The aluminum alloy for flexible profile applications
Whether in window construction, mechanical engineering, or interior design – AlMgSi0.5 (EN AW 6060) offers the perfect combination of processing, appearance, and functionality. The alloy convinces with corrosion protection, good strength, anodizability, and high design freedom in extrusion.
