What is 7075 Aluminum Extrusion?

7075 aluminum sounds like a superhero metal—and in some ways, it is. But is it right for extrusion? And why do engineers love it so much? Let’s unpack its secrets.

7075 aluminum extrusion is a high-strength, precision-formed aluminum product made by forcing 7075 alloy through a die, widely used in aerospace, motorsports, and high-performance industries.

This grade is strong, light, and tough. But not every project needs that power. Let’s explore when and how to use 7075 in extrusion.

Can 7075 aluminum be extruded?

You might think that the strongest metals are the hardest to shape—and you’d be right.

Yes, 7075 aluminum can be extruded, but it requires special care due to its high strength and lower formability compared to other aluminum grades.

Challenges of Extruding 7075

7075 contains zinc as its primary alloying element, which gives it high strength¹—but also makes it more brittle than 6xxx or 5xxx series.

Why Still Use It?

Despite the difficulty, extruding 7075 is worth it when strength matters most. Aircraft frames, high-load brackets, and racing parts are common examples.

What does 7075 mean in aluminum?

This isn’t just a random number. It tells you what’s inside the alloy—and what it can do.

7075 in aluminum refers to an alloy series where zinc is the primary element, known for its extremely high strength and moderate corrosion resistance.

Understanding the Numbering

• 7xxx series: Zinc-based
• 0: Indicates the first modification of the original alloy
• 75: Identifies the specific alloy in the series

Key Properties of 7075

This alloy is often heat-treated to the T6 or T73 temper², which dramatically boosts strength while balancing stress resistance.

Can you anodize 7075 aluminum?

I get this question a lot—especially from clients in electronics or precision gear sectors who want that anodized look.

Yes, 7075 aluminum can be anodized, but it may not take dye as evenly as other grades and needs special care to avoid surface pitting.

Anodizing 7075: Pros and Cons

Tips for Better Results

• Use hard anodizing³ for technical applications.
• Avoid decorative finishes unless you pre-test.
• Seal the anodized layer⁴ well to prevent corrosion in harsh environments.

7075 is anodized primarily for protection, not for beauty. If color and finish matter most, consider 6061 instead.

What grade of aluminium is used for extrusion?

When it comes to extrusion, not all aluminum grades are equal. Some bend easily. Others snap under pressure.

The most commonly used aluminum grades for extrusion are 6061 and 6063, thanks to their excellent extrudability, strength, and surface finish.

Top Aluminum Grades for Extrusion

Choosing the Right Grade

• Go with 6063⁵ if appearance matters—think window frames or decorative trims.
• Use 6061 for general engineering and industrial strength needs.
• Select 7075⁶ when strength is more important than cost or formability.

In my projects, I usually recommend 6061⁷ or 6063 unless the client specifically needs the added strength of 7075. These alloys strike the right balance between ease of manufacture and performance.

Conclusion

7075 aluminum is strong, light, and high-performing—but it’s not for every job. It can be extruded and anodized, but with some limitations. For most extrusions, 6061 and 6063 are still the go-to grades. Choose the one that fits your needs—not just the one with the highest specs.