6061 vs 7075 Aluminum for CNC Machining
In CNC machining, 6061 and 7075 are the two most common aerospace‑grade aluminum alloys. Choosing the wrong material can lead to premature part failure or wasted cost – that’s why understanding 6061 vs 7075 Aluminum for CNC Machining is essential before you start cutting. Their performance differs dramatically. This article compares them point by point: strength, cutting behavior, residual stress, corrosion resistance, and cost – so you can make the right choice. Base Properties: Numbers Speak Property 6061 Aluminum 7075 Aluminum Tensile Strength ~310 MPa ~570 MPa Yield Strength ~275 MPa ~505 MPa Elastic Modulus 68.9 GPa 71.7 GPa Hardness (HB) ~95 ~150 Fatigue Strength (5e8 cycles) ~96 MPa ~159 MPa Corrosion Resistance Excellent Poor (stress corrosion cracking risk) Weldability Good (filler 4043/5356) Poor (hot cracking tendency) 6061 is a Mg‑Si alloy offering balanced toughness and corrosion resistance. 7075 is a Zn‑Cu alloy with strength close to steel, but it is sensitive to stress corrosion – especially under transverse loading. CNC Machining Characteristics: Which Cuts Better? Machinability – 6061: Produces spiral chips that break easily. Recommended cutting parameters: linear speed 200–300 m/min, feed per tooth 0.05–0.15 mm. Low tool wear; easily achieves Ra ≤ 0.8 μm surface finish. – 7075:...
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