1. Precision Alloy Composition: Decoding the High-Performance DNA

EN AW-6018 Chemical Composition (Typical, %):

• Silicon (Si): 0.60-1.10%, the primary strengthening element, forms Mg2Si precipitates with magnesium, enhancing heat treatment strength.

• Magnesium (Mg): 0.60-1.20%, optimizing alloy plasticity and weldability, and contributing to aging hardening reactions.

• Copper (Cu): 0.15-0.45%, small amounts enhance the bake-hardening effect, further increasing yield strength after coating.

• Iron (Fe): ≤0.50%, strict control of impurity content ensures excellent formability and surface quality.

This composition design elevates the alloy’s tensile strength by 10%-15% compared to traditional 6xxx series alloys (such as EN AW-6016), while significantly improving crack resistance during stamping, making it particularly suited for manufacturing complex exterior panels with curved surfaces.

2. Performance Advantages: Empowering the Entire Automotive Manufacturing Process

（1）Exceptional Formability

In the T4 temper (solution heat-treated + natural aging), EN AW-6018 exhibits remarkable plasticity: elongation can reach 22%-28%, far surpassing similar alloys and meeting the demanding requirements of deep drawing and complex bending processes for automotive body panels. Data from a German automotive manufacturer indicates that the forming qualification rate of door outer panels made from this alloy increased by 8%, and mold wear was reduced by 15%.

（2）Intelligent Strength Control System

Through heat treatment process adjustments, the alloy can flexibly transition between the "forming state" and the "load-bearing state":

• T4 State: Focuses on high formability during stamping, ideal for large exterior panels such as hoods and roofs.

• T6 State: After artificial aging, tensile strength reaches 270-320 MPa, suitable for high-strength structural components such as A-pillars and bumpers.

• T61 Special State: Specifically designed for automotive outer panels, utilizing the bake-hardening effect triggered during the coating process (170-190°C for 20-30 minutes), which further boosts yield strength by 30-50 MPa and significantly enhances surface dent resistance, addressing the industry’s challenge of "orange peel" on traditional aluminum alloy panels.

（3）Reliable Lifecycle Performance

Welding Compatibility: Supports mainstream welding processes such as MIG and TIG, with joint strength reaching over 85% of the base material. The heat-affected zone remains stable, ensuring high-precision requirements for automated body welding lines.

Environmental Corrosion Resistance: In salt spray tests (ASTM B117), uncoated samples show over 500 hours of corrosion resistance, while coated samples exceed 2,000 hours, making it suitable for coastal and harsh climates.

3.Technical Parameters and Process Guidelines

（1）T4 State

• Tensile Strength (MPa)：220-280

• Yield Strength (MPa)：120-160

• Elongation (%)：25 (average)

（2）T6 State

• Tensile Strength (MPa)：270-320

• Yield Strength (MPa)：220-280

• Elongation (%)：15 (average)

（3）T61 State (Post-baking)

• Tensile Strength (MPa)：290-340

• Yield Strength (MPa)：250-310 (+15%)

• Elongation (%)：18 (average)

4.Process Key Points

• Heat Treatment Control: Solution temperature must be strictly controlled between 525-545°C, with soaking time adjusted based on material thickness (1-3mm plates should soak for 30-45 minutes).

• Surface Treatment: Supports anodizing and electrophoretic coating processes. For pre-treatment, it is recommended to use a combination of alkaline degreasing and acid pickling to ensure a 20% improvement in coating adhesion.

• Welding Process: Preferred welding wire: ER5356 (magnesium content 5%). Welding current should be controlled at 120-180A to minimize the risk of heat cracks.

5.Conclusion

The introduction of EN AW-6018 marks a leap from "usable" to "optimal" in the realm of automotive exterior panels. Its innovations not only enhance material performance but also provide a full industrial chain solution for vehicle manufacturing, from design to forming and coating. With mature production processes and cost optimization, this alloy is poised to transition from high-end models to the mainstream market, becoming one of the core materials for the automotive lightweight revolution over the next decade.

6.Preferred Material Choice, Trusted by Bolaibao

As a professional aluminum alloy material service provider, Suzhou Bolaibao Metal Group is committed to offering high-performance, stable-quality aluminum materials. We offer long-term stock supply of various product series, including EN AW-6018, with services such as customized processing, material certification, and rapid delivery.

We are not just material suppliers; we are your reliable partner in metal solutions.

Visit our website to learn more about our products: http://blbmetal.com
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