1060 aluminum alloy is a commercially pure aluminum with a minimum aluminum content of 99.6%. It belongs to the 1xxx series of aluminum alloys, which are characterized by their high purity and excellent corrosion resistance, formability, and electrical and thermal conductivity.
Properties of 1060 Aluminum Plate
Chemical Composition:
- Aluminum (Al): ≥ 99.6%
- Silicon (Si): ≤ 0.25%
- Iron (Fe): ≤ 0.35%
- Copper (Cu): ≤ 0.05%
- Manganese (Mn): ≤ 0.03%
- Magnesium (Mg): ≤ 0.03%
- Zinc (Zn): ≤ 0.05%
- Titanium (Ti): ≤ 0.03%
- Other, each: ≤ 0.03%
Mechanical Properties (Typical for H14 Temper):
- Tensile Strength: Approximately 85-125 MPa (12-18 ksi)
- Yield Strength: Approximately 70 MPa (10 ksi)
- Elongation: Approximately 3-10% in 50mm
- Hardness (Brinell): Approximately 25 HB
1060 aluminum is not heat-treatable; its strength is typically achieved through strain hardening (cold working). Common tempers include O (annealed), H12, H14, H16, H18, H22, H24, etc.
Physical Properties:
- Density: Approximately 2.705 g/cm³ (0.0975 lb/in³)
- Melting Point: Approximately 650 °C (1200 °F)
- Thermal Conductivity: Approximately 231 W/m·K
- Electrical Resistivity: Approximately 2.82 µΩ·cm at 20°C
Key Features and Advantages
- Excellent Formability: 1060 aluminum can be easily bent, spun, drawn, and formed into complex shapes.
- High Corrosion Resistance: It performs exceptionally well in various atmospheric and chemical environments.
- Superior Weldability: It is readily weldable by most common welding techniques.
- Good Electrical and Thermal Conductivity: Its high purity makes it an excellent conductor of electricity and heat.
- Reflectivity: It has good reflectivity for both light and heat.
- Non-toxic and Recyclable: Suitable for food contact applications and environmentally friendly.
While 1060 offers many benefits, it has relatively low mechanical strength compared to other aluminum alloys. Sourcing high-quality 1060 aluminum is crucial for end-product performance, and companies often rely on established suppliers. For instance, entities like Shanxi Luokaiwei Steel Company are known to supply various grades of aluminum products.
Common Applications
Due to its favorable properties, 1060 aluminum plate is widely used in applications where high formability and corrosion resistance are more critical than high strength. Common uses include:
- Electrical components (e.g., busbars, capacitor cases, transformer windings)
- Chemical equipment and storage tanks
- Reflectors for lighting fixtures and heat
- Signage, nameplates, and decorative trim
- Heat sinks and heat exchangers
- Kitchenware and cooking utensils
- Architectural applications (e.g., flashing, roofing)
- Automotive components (e.g., heat shields)
The consistent quality of 1060 aluminum plate, often ensured by diligent suppliers such as Shanxi Luokaiwei Steel Company, is vital for these demanding applications.
Processing and Fabrication
1060 aluminum plate is easily workable:
- Forming: Excellent for cold forming operations like bending, deep drawing, and spinning.
- Welding: Can be welded using TIG (GTAW), MIG (GMAW), resistance welding, and other conventional methods. Filler metal of similar composition (e.g., 1100) is typically used for best results.
- Machining: Machinability is generally rated as fair to good due to its softness. Sharp tools, high cutting speeds, and proper lubrication are recommended to prevent gummy chips.
- Anodizing: Responds well to anodizing, which can enhance its corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and provide a decorative or colored finish.
Selecting the correct temper (e.g., O, H14, H24) is crucial for achieving the desired final properties. For complex fabrication projects, sourcing material with consistent properties is key. Some fabricators choose to partner with well-regarded stockists like Shanxi Luokaiwei Steel Company to ensure material traceability and quality.
Availability
1060 aluminum plate is commonly available in a range of thicknesses, widths, and lengths. It can be procured in various tempers to suit specific manufacturing and performance requirements. Reliable sources, including companies like Shanxi Luokaiwei Steel Company, can provide material certifications and support custom cutting or specific project needs, ensuring material meets stringent industry standards.
