What is 6063 T5 material?

Choosing the right aluminum alloy can feel overwhelming, especially when codes like 6063 T5 sound like technical jargon.

6063 T5 is an aluminum alloy known for its smooth finish, excellent corrosion resistance, and moderate strength, making it ideal for architectural and decorative applications.

If you’re in construction or manufacturing, knowing what 6063 T5 is—and isn’t—can help you avoid costly mistakes and choose the right material from the start.

What is 6063 T5 aluminum used for?

Many people use aluminum daily but don’t realize which alloy or temper they’re actually handling.

6063 T5 aluminum is mainly used in window frames, door frames, curtain walls, and other architectural profiles where appearance and corrosion resistance are key.

This alloy is especially popular in construction and architectural decoration because of its good extrudability¹ and smooth surface finish. These features allow it to be anodized easily, offering a clean and attractive appearance that lasts for years.

Here are some typical applications:

Common Applications Table

Because of its medium strength, it performs best in low-load scenarios. It’s not suitable for heavy mechanical loads or aerospace use, but it shines when looks, corrosion resistance², and ease of forming are more important.

What is the difference between 6061 and 6063 T5?

Even experienced buyers often ask: "Should I use 6061 or 6063 T5 for my project?"

6061 is stronger and better for structural applications, while 6063 T5 is easier to extrude and finish for decorative or light structural use.

Both are part of the 6000-series aluminum³ family, which means they use magnesium and silicon as primary alloying elements. However, their performance is quite different.

6061 aluminum contains more magnesium and copper. That gives it higher strength and better fatigue resistance. It’s ideal for applications that involve mechanical stress, like automotive parts or machine structures.

6063 T5, in contrast, has lower strength but higher extrudability. This makes it the better option for applications needing complex shapes or smooth surfaces.

Comparison Table

If strength and load-bearing are your top concerns, choose 6061. If aesthetics and corrosion resistance in mild environments are more important, 6063 T5 is the winner.

Is 6063 T5 aluminum marine grade?

Saltwater is harsh. Not all aluminum alloys can survive in it without degrading quickly.

6063 T5 is not considered marine-grade aluminum, although it does offer basic corrosion resistance suitable for limited coastal or damp environments.

Marine-grade aluminum typically comes from the 5000 and 6000 series. The most commonly used marine-grade alloys include 5052, 5083, and 6061, all of which offer excellent corrosion resistance⁴ in seawater.

6063 T5 can handle humidity and rain, but it’s not ideal for constant exposure to salt spray or full marine immersion. If you use it near water, anodizing or powder coating is essential.

Here’s a breakdown:

Marine Suitability Table

Use 6063 T5 for railings or dock parts above water, but not for underwater or coastal installations without surface treatment.

What is stronger, T5 or T6 aluminum?

Heat treatment can change the performance of aluminum dramatically. T5 and T6 are both tempers that refer to how the alloy is processed.

T6 aluminum is stronger than T5 because it undergoes a more intense heat treatment process called solution heat treatment.

Both tempers can apply to 6063 alloy⁵, but the strength results are different:

• 6063-T5: Cooled from the extrusion temperature and then artificially aged.
• 6063-T6: Solution heat-treated and then aged, making it harder and stronger.

Strength Comparison Table

If you’re working on a project that requires higher strength and doesn’t mind slightly higher cost and reduced formability, go with T6. Otherwise, T5 is sufficient for less demanding applications.

Conclusion

6063 T5 aluminum is a versatile material with excellent surface finish and decent strength. It’s a smart choice for architectural and light structural applications, especially when aesthetics and corrosion resistance are important. Just be sure to match the alloy and temper to your specific project needs.