EN AW-6951: A Rising Star Among 6xxx Series Aluminum Alloys Balancing Strength, Corrosion Resistance, and Workability
2025-04-08

EN AW-6951 is a heat-treatable wrought aluminum alloy classified under the European Norm (EN) and part of the 6xxx series based on the Al-Mg-Si system.


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1. Standard and Designation

Naming Breakdown:

  • EN – European Norm

  • AW – Aluminum Wrought

  • 6951 – Specific alloy code, where “6” indicates the Al-Mg-Si system and the last three digits denote the particular variation within this family



2. Chemical Composition

The 6xxx series alloys primarily rely on magnesium (Mg) and silicon (Si) as alloying elements, which form the strengthening Mg₂Si phase through precipitation hardening. The typical composition range (by weight) for EN AW-6951 is:

  • Silicon (Si):0.6–1.0%

  • Magnesium (Mg):0.6–1.1%

  • Iron (Fe):≤ 0.5%

  • Copper (Cu):≤ 0.2–0.4%

  • Manganese (Mn):≤ 0.1–0.4%

  • Chromium (Cr):≤ 0.1%

  • Zinc (Zn):≤ 0.1%

  • Others (each):≤ 0.05%

  • Others (total):≤ 0.15%

  • Aluminum (Al):Remainder



3. Material Properties

(1)Mechanical Properties (Typical values after T6 tempering):

  • Tensile Strength (Rm): 260–310 MPa

  • Yield Strength (Rp0.2): 240–280 MPa

  • Elongation (A50mm): 8–12%

  • Hardness: approx. 95–100 HB


(2)Physical Properties:

  • Density: ~2.7 g/cm³

  • Melting Range: ~580–650°C

  • Thermal Conductivity: ~160–180 W/(m·K)

  • Electrical Conductivity: ~50–55% IACS


(3)Corrosion Resistance:
EN AW-6951 performs well in typical atmospheric and marine environments, though slightly below 5xxx series (Al-Mg) alloys. Anodizing and other surface treatments can significantly enhance its corrosion resistance.


(4)Workability:
Excellent cold and hot workability—well-suited for extrusion, rolling, and forging. Good weldability using MIG/TIG methods.



4. Heat Treatment Process

  • Solution Treatment (T4 Condition):

Heated to ~530°C and rapidly quenched to form a supersaturated solid solution.


  • Artificial Aging (T6 Condition):

Aged at 160–180°C for 8–12 hours to precipitate Mg₂Si phase, enhancing strength.


  • Annealing (O Condition):

Slow cooling from ~415°C to soften the material and improve formability for deep drawing or further processing.



5. Typical Applications

EN AW-6951 is ideal for applications requiring medium strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and good formability:


  • Transportation:

Automotive body panels, bumpers, radiator components


  • Architecture:

Window frames, curtain wall profiles


  • Industrial Components:

Tubing, containers, mechanical parts


  • Electronics:

Heat sinks, conductive housings



6. Comparison with Other 6xxx Alloys

(1)EN AW-6061:

  • Tensile Strength:Slightly lower

  • Corrosion Resistance:Better

  • Workability:Excellent

  • Typical Use:General-purpose structures


(2)EN AW-6082:

  • Tensile Strength:Slightly higher

  • Corrosion Resistance:Moderate

  • Workability:Moderate

  • Typical Use:Load-bearing structures


(3)EN AW-6951:

  • Tensile Strength:Balanced

  • Corrosion Resistance:Good

  • Workability:Excellent

  • Typical Use:Multi-purpose engineering



7. Key Considerations

  • Storage & Processing:

Avoid direct contact with dissimilar metals like steel or copper to prevent galvanic corrosion.


  • Surface Finishing:

Anodizing is recommended to improve both corrosion resistance and surface aesthetics.


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8.Conclusion

With its well-balanced mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, and processability, EN AW-6951 proves to be a highly versatile material solution. It offers reliable support in a variety of applications—from automotive and architectural structures to electronics and precision components. As the demand for lightweight, multi-functional materials continues to rise, EN AW-6951 is poised to play an increasingly important role in advanced manufacturing sectors.



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