6063 (He9) — Aluminium Grade Specification, Properties & Equivalents
The 6063 (He9) aluminium alloy, also known by its Indian Standard designation He9, is a medium-strength aluminium alloy renowned for its excellent corrosion resistance, good weldability, and superb extrudability. Primarily used in architectural applications, 6063 (He9) is a popul
The 6063 (He9) aluminium alloy, also known by its Indian Standard designation He9, is a medium-strength aluminium alloy renowned for its excellent corrosion resistance, good weldability, and superb extrudability. Primarily used in architectural applications, 6063 (He9) is a popular choice for window frames, door frames, curtain walls, and other building components where a good surface finish is paramount. Indian manufacturers and fabricators rely on 6063 (He9) for producing intricate profiles that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally robust. This alloy's versatility extends to furniture, signage, and even automotive trim, making it a staple in many Indian industrial sectors. Its consistent performance and ease of fabrication solidify 6063 (He9)'s position as a go-to material for a wide array of structural and decorative uses across India's burgeoning infrastructure and manufacturing landscape.
Chemical Composition of 6063 (He9)
6063 (He9) Aluminium Alloy Chemical Composition
| Element | Minimum (%) | Maximum (%) |
| Aluminium (Al) | Balance | Balance |
| Copper (Cu) | 0.00 | 0.10 |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.00 | 0.35 |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 0.45 | 0.90 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.00 | 0.10 |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.20 | 0.60 |
| Titanium (Ti) | 0.00 | 0.10 |
| Vanadium (V) | 0.00 | 0.05 |
| Zinc (Zn) | 0.00 | 0.10 |
| Others (Each) | 0.00 | 0.05 |
| Others (Total) | 0.00 | 0.15 |
Mechanical Properties of 6063 (He9)
6063 (He9) Aluminium Alloy Mechanical Properties
| Property | Typical Value (T6 Temper) |
| Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) | 240 MPa |
| Yield Strength (YS) (0.2% offset) | 215 MPa |
| Elongation at Break | 12% |
| Brinell Hardness (10mm ball, 500kg load) | 70 HB |
| Density | 2.70 g/cm³ |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 69 GPa |
6063 (He9) Aluminium Alloy Available Forms in India
| Shape | Typical Sizes | Standard Length (mm) |
| Extruded Profiles | Customizable to intricate designs | 3000 - 6000 |
| Tubes (Seamless & Welded) | OD: 5 - 100 mm, Wall Thickness: 0.5 - 8 mm | 3000 - 6000 |
| Rods & Bars | Diameter: 8 - 50 mm | 3000 - 6000 |
| Sheets & Plates | Thickness: 0.5 - 6 mm, Width: up to 1200 mm | 1200 x 2400 / 1500 x 3000 |
6063 (He9) Aluminium Alloy Real-world Applications
- Architectural Glazing: Window and door frames, curtain wall systems, shopfronts.
- Building & Construction: Facades, railings, grilles, decorative trim, structural components.
- Furniture: Table frames, chair components, shelving units requiring aesthetic appeal.
- Automotive: Trim, decorative elements, some structural parts where lightweight and corrosion resistance are key.
- Signage: Frames and supports for indoor and outdoor signs.
- Lighting Fixtures: Housings and reflectors for lamps and luminaires.
- Other Industries: General engineering, heat sinks, marine components (with appropriate coatings).
6063 (He9) Aluminium Alloy Machinability & Weldability
The machinability of 6063 (He9) aluminium alloy is considered good, especially in the T6 temper. Its relatively soft nature allows for easy cutting and shaping, making it ideal for complex profiles achievable through extrusion. For optimal results, use high-speed steel or carbide cutting tools with ample coolant. Recommended cutting speeds are generally higher than those for harder alloys. Chip control can be a minor challenge due to the long, stringy chips produced; employing tools with a higher rake angle and ensuring chips are cleared effectively is crucial. Regarding weldability, 6063 (He9) is rated excellent. It can be readily joined using gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW/TIG) or gas metal arc welding (GMAW/MIG). Due to its excellent corrosion resistance, post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) is often avoided to maintain the original corrosion properties, though this will reduce the weld joint strength compared to the base metal. If PWHT is necessary for mechanical strength, it typically involves solution heat treatment followed by quenching and artificial aging, replicating, as closely as possible, the T6 temper. However, for most architectural applications, the as-welded condition is sufficient due to the alloy6063 (He9) Aluminium Alloy Heat Treatment & Processing
The 6063 (He9) aluminium alloy is a precipitation-hardenable alloy, typically supplied in the T6 temper, which signifies solution heat-treated and artificially aged. The standard heat treatment process for achieving the T6 temper involves solution treatment at temperatures between 495°C and 525°C for a specified duration (typically 1-2 hours per inch of thickness), followed by rapid quenching in water or air. This process dissolves alloying elements into the aluminium matrix. Artificial aging is then performed within a temperature range of 150°C to 200°C for several hours (commonly 6-10 hours), which precipitates fine intermetallic particles, significantly enhancing the alloy's strength and hardness. Other tempers are available; for instance, the T4 temper involves solution treatment and natural aging, offering higher ductility but lower strength compared to T6. Annealing, to soften the 6063 (He9) alloy for further forming, is typically done at temperatures between 350°C and 410°C, followed by slow cooling. Normalizing is not applicable to aluminium alloys in the same way as steels; the closest equivalent process relevant to 6063 (He9) is solution heat treatment.6063 (He9) Aluminium Alloy Sourcing in India
The 6063 (He9) aluminium alloy is a cornerstone material for India's extrusion industry. Major Indian producers like Hindalco, Nalco, and Vedanta supply this grade, alongside numerous smaller regional manufacturers and specialized extrusion companies. Stockholders in major industrial hubs such as Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad maintain significant inventory. Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) for standard extruded profiles of 6063 (He9) can be as low as 50-100 kgs for common sections, though custom extrusions may require larger orders starting from 200-500 kgs. The price band for 6063 (He9) in India typically ranges from INR 200 to INR 250 per kilogram, depending on the form, order volume, and prevailing market conditions for primary aluminium. Material Test Certificates (MTC) conforming to IS 733 or relevant ASTM standards are standard requirements from reputable suppliers, detailing chemical composition and mechanical properties.6063 (He9) Aluminium Alloy International Equivalents
| Standard | Code |
| IS | He9 |
| ASTM | 6063 |
| EN | AlMg0.7Si |
| JIS | A6063 |
| DIN | 3.3549 |
| GOST | АД31 |
FAQs about 6063 (He9)
What is the primary use of 6063 (He9) aluminium alloy in India?
The primary use of 6063 (He9) aluminium alloy in India is in architectural applications, particularly for extruding window frames, door frames, curtain walls, and other building facade elements. Its excellent corrosion resistance, smooth surface finish, and ease of fabrication make it ideal for these construction-related needs.
Can 6063 (He9) be used for structural applications?
While 6063 (He9) is a medium-strength alloy, it is widely used for non-load-bearing structural components in architecture, such as decorative panels and trim. For highly stressed structural applications, higher strength aluminium alloys like 6061 (H20) or Duralumin variants might be more suitable, though 6063 (He9) does find use in certain lighter structural roles.
What is the typical temper for 6063 (He9) supplied in India?
The most common temper for 6063 (He9) aluminium alloy supplied in India is T6. This temper indicates that the alloy has undergone solution heat treatment and artificial aging, providing a good balance of strength (around 215 MPa yield) and ductility, making it suitable for a wide range of extrusion and fabrication processes.
How does 6063 (He9) compare to 6061 aluminium alloy?
Compared to 6061 (H20), 6063 (He9) aluminium alloy offers superior extrudability and a better surface finish, making it preferable for complex architectural shapes. However, 6061 generally possesses higher strength and better weldability for structural joints, although 6063 (He9) has excellent weldability for its intended applications.
What is the typical price range for 6063 (He9) aluminium in India?
The typical price range for 6063 (He9) aluminium alloy in India is approximately INR 200 to INR 250 per kilogram. This price is subject to fluctuations based on the global aluminium market, specific product form (extrusion, sheet, rod), order quantity, and supplier. Buyers should always request current quotes for precise pricing.
Tags: grade, aluminium, 6063 (he9)