Strength Of Al 6061 Vs Galvennealed A60 Steel - Sheet Metal

[rc0213]

We are looking at converting a steel sheet metal assembly design to aluminum, in sheet metals.


So, what is the approximate strength ratio of Al-6061 to Galvannealed A60 Steel?

 

[Tmoose]

Hi rc0213.

Not near enough info.

Pictures would help.

Modulus of elasticity ( stretchiness, especially bending stiffness ) any steel is about 3X stiffer than almost any aluminum.

Yield strength - if you are welding the 6061 the material near the welds can be "weak" and yield easily. part Geometry can ( and should) make this a non-issue.

Tensile strength - not many designs depend on UTS. And some of those that do should be redesigned. Fancy aluminum can have a pretty decent UTS. I could not find specs for the steel filling of A60. Being annealed, I'd guess a UTS ~ 60,000 ksi.

 

[hendersdc]

6061 doesn't bend well either, unless you are using it in its annealed condition. One typical aluminum used in bent sheet metal parts that do not require post forming heat treating would be 5052-H32.

 

Starting point is the design requirements.

Based on that and the comparative relevant properties of the candidate materials, determine a minimum thickness and finish condition for each. As mentioned already, the candidate material must be able to survive manufacturing processes.

Then compare costs, including factors that arise later in the life cycle.

"Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but they are not entitled to their own facts."