Aluminium alloy 6026 is a recently developed, free-machining alloy designed to meet key European Environmental Protection Directives: • 2000/53/CE (ELV) – Automotive sector • 2002/95/CE (RoHS) – Electrical and electronics sector Unlike some free-machining alloys, 6026 does not rely on tin (Sn), which is known to cause weakness and cracking in machined parts exposed to stress and elevated temperatures. As a result, 6026 offers improved structural integrity and reliability. The alloy provides excellent corrosion resistance and is well suited for decorative and hard anodising applications. It is a strong alternative to alloys 6061 and 6082, and extruded bars in 6026 achieve minimum tensile strength comparable to alloys 2011 and 2030, while offering superior machinability.
Alloy 6026 is commonly used in place of 6082 or 6081, particularly where extensive machining is required:
Alloy 6026
| Chemical Element | % Present |
|---|---|
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.20 – 1.00 |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.00 – 0.70 |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 0.60 – 1.20 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.60 – 1.40 |
| Copper (Cu) | 0.20 – 0.50 |
| Lead (Pb) | 0.00 – 0.40 |
| Bismuth (Bi) | 0.50 – 1.50 |
| Zinc (Zn) | 0.00 – 0.30 |
| Aluminium (Al) | Balance |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 2.72 g/cm³ |
| Thermal Expansion | 23.4 × 10⁻⁶ /K |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 69 GPa |
| Thermal Conductivity | 172 W/m·K |
| Electrical Resistivity | 0.039 × 10⁻⁶ Ω·m |
Spec: T9 Temper
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Proof Stress | 330 MPa (Min) |
| Tensile Strength | 360 MPa (Min) |
| Elongation (A50 mm) | 4% (Min) |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 95 HB (Min) |
The most common temper for 6026 aluminium is:
