Processing: Excellent Machinability, Weldability, and High Strength.
Forging: 6061 can be forged at temperatures in the range of 750°F to 900°F. Hot working may be done in the temperature range of 500°F to 700°F.
Welding: 6061 can be readily welded using all the common welding techniques.
Heat Treating: Solution heat treat at 990°F for adequate time to allow for thorough heating and then water quenched. Precipitation hardening is done at 320°F for 18 hours and air cool, followed by 350°F for 8 hours and air cooled.
Annealing: Should be done at 775°F for at 2 to 3 hours at temperature, followed by controlled cooling at 50°F per hour down to 500°F, then air cooled.
Aging: The aging precipitation heat treatment is done at 350°F for 8 hours, followed by air cooling. This produces the T6 temper.
