ALUMINIUM PLATBAND ALUMINIUM 6060 40X10MM / 6M

Platband 6060 aluminium is a flat profile, widely used in various industrial, construction and decorative applications due to its excellent properties and versatility. This type of profile, made from 6060 aluminium alloy (AlMgSi0.5), is part of the 6xxx series, known for its optimal balance between mechanical strength, machinability and corrosion resistance. In the following, I will give a detailed description of 6060 aluminium platband, including its composition, properties, manufacturing process, applications and advantages.

Composition of 6060 alloy

6060 aluminium strip is made from the alloy of the same name, which has the following typical chemical composition:

• Aluminium (Al): 98-99%, being the basic element.
• Magnesium (Mg): 0.35-0.6%, contributing to the strengthening of the structure by heat treatment.
• Silicon (Si): 0.3-0.6%, which increases formability and mechanical strength.
• Iron (Fe): maximum 0.1-0.3%, as a controlled impurity to maintain purity.
• Other elements (copper, manganese, chromium, etc.): In minor amounts (less than 0.1%), to adjust specific properties.

This composition gives alloy 6060 a uniform structure, ideal for extrusion and machining, as well as excellent corrosion resistance due to the natural aluminium oxide layer formed on the surface.

Physical and mechanical properties

6060 aluminium platbanding is distinguished by several key characteristics:

1. Lightweight: With a density of approximately 2.7 g/cm³, it is significantly lighter than steel, making it ideal for applications where low mass is an advantage.
2. Corrosion Resistant: The thin aluminium oxide layer protects the platband against oxidation, making it suitable for use in damp or weathered environments.
3. Malleability and machinability: 6060 alloy is easy to extrude, cut, drill, drill, weld or mould, allowing the platband to be manufactured in various sizes and shapes.
4. Moderate mechanical strength: In the T6 (heat treated) condition, the tensile strength is approximately 190-210 MPa and the yield strength is between 120-160 MPa, making it suitable for light structural applications.
5. Thermal and electrical conductivity: 6060 Platband is a good conductor and is used in applications involving heat dissipation or electrical conduction.
6. Aesthetic appearance: The smooth surface and the possibility of anodising or painting give the platband an attractive finish, ideal for decorative uses.

Manufacturing process

The 6060 aluminium strip is produced by the extrusion process specific to the 6xxx series alloys. Production steps include:

1. Smelting and alloying: Pure aluminium is combined with magnesium and silicon in a furnace to produce the 6060 alloy.
2. Extrusion: The molten material is moulded into ingots, then heated and pressed through a flat die to form the platband profile. This process ensures a uniform and accurate cross-section.
3. Heat treatment: The platband undergoes a heat treatment (usually T6 - heat solution and artificial ageing) to increase its strength and durability.
4. Surface finish: Can be left raw, polished, anodised or painted, depending on the application.

Dimensions and availability

6060 aluminium platband is available in a wide range of sizes, with widths ranging from a few millimetres (e.g. 10 mm) to over 100 mm and thicknesses from 2 mm to 20 mm or more, depending on manufacturer's specifications. Standard lengths are typically 3-6 metres, but can be cut to length on request.

Applications

6060 aluminium platband is extremely versatile and is used in many areas:

1. Construction: used as a structural or decorative element in window frames, doors, facades, balustrades or cladding due to its corrosion resistance and aesthetic appearance.
2. Automotive: Integrated into lightweight components, such as underframes or body elements, where light weight is essential.
3. Furniture and interior design: Used to manufacture furniture frames, decorative profiles or supporting elements, thanks to its elegant finish.
4. Electronics industry: Used as a support or housing for equipment due to its thermal conductivity and ease of processing.
5. Machinery manufacturing: Used for parts and components requiring machinability and moderate strength.
6. Decorative applications: Anodising allows for coloured finishes, making it popular in interior and exterior decoration.

Advantages

• Ease of processing: Platband can be cut, welded or moulded with standard equipment, reducing production costs.
• Durability: Corrosion and wear resistance makes it suitable for long-term use.
• Aesthetics: Smooth surface and customisable finishes (anodising, painting) make it attractive for visible applications.
• Recyclable: Aluminium 6060 is fully recyclable, making it a sustainable choice.
• Cost-effective: It offers good value for money and is more affordable than higher strength alloys.

Limitations

6060 aluminium platband is not recommended for applications requiring very high mechanical strength or exposure to extreme conditions (e.g. high temperatures or aggressive chemical environments). In such cases, alloys such as 6082 or 7075 would be more suitable. Also the low thickness of the platband may limit its use in heavy load-bearing structures.

Conclusion

6060 aluminium flatband is an excellent solution for applications requiring a lightweight, corrosion resistant and easy to machine material with an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Its properties make it indispensable in the construction, design, automotive and electronics industries and its versatility allows it to be adapted to a variety of needs. Being recyclable and affordable, this flat profile continues to be a popular choice in modern industry, combining functionality with economic efficiency.