Key facts
Where to buy| Property | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 0.097 lb/in³ (2.70 g/cm³) | Teal Sheets |
| Aerospace specification | AMS 4156: extrusions, 6063-T6 | SAE AMS4156 title |
| In MIL-HDBK-5J | Not listed | MIL-HDBK-5J Table 3.1.1 |
| In AC 43.13-1B | Not listed | AC 43.13-1B |
No strength value is given here because none of the sources used by this site prints one. Use the AMS specification and the mill certificate.
Reading the alloy and temper code
Composition limits, weight percent
| Element | Limit |
|---|---|
| Si | 0.20–0.6 |
| Fe | 0.35 |
| Cu | 0.10 |
| Mn | 0.10 |
| Mg | 0.45–0.9 |
| Cr | 0.10 |
| Zn | 0.10 |
| Ti | 0.10 |
| Al | Remainder |
A single number is a maximum. Other elements: 0.05 each, 0.15 total, except where the Teal Sheets say otherwise. Source: Aluminum Association Teal Sheets (Aug 2018).
What to do with it
Do not assume 6063 is 6061. They share a series, but MIL-HDBK-5J has allowables only for 6061, and the composition limits differ, for example in magnesium and copper.
If it is fitted to the aircraft, the drawing or parts catalogue names it. Do not choose it for a repair without approved data.
Questions people actually ask
Can I use 6063 tube in place of 6061 tube?
Not without approved data. MIL-HDBK-5J gives drawn tube allowables for 6061 (Table 3.6.2.0(c1)) and nothing for 6063.
Limits — when NOT to use this
- Not a source of design allowables. Values are for reference. MMPDS and the SRM govern a repair.
- Not a substitution approval. A different alloy or temper needs approved data.
Where to buy
AmericaDistributor coming soonOur partner for this region is on its way
EuropeDistributor coming soonOur partner for this region is on its way
OceaniaDistributor coming soonOur partner for this region is on its way
Distributors coming soon.
Sources
- Aluminum Association, International Alloy Designations (Teal Sheets), rev. Aug 2018 — chemical composition limits and nominal densities.
- SAE AMS4156, Aluminum Alloy, Extrusions, 6063-T6 — title and scope. The values are in the paid document.
- MIL-HDBK-5J (31 Jan 2003), Chapter 3 — Table 3.1.1, alloy index. Cancelled and superseded by MMPDS: check current MMPDS before design use.
- FAA AC 43.13-1B CHG 1, Chapters 4 and 7 — checked for 6063: no entry.
- MMPDS (formerly MIL-HDBK-5) — the current home of design allowables. A repair substantiation cites MMPDS or the SRM, not a website.
Educational reference only. not approved data. Always consult the applicable SRM, AMM, or AC 43.13-1B and your certifying authority.