Welding Aluminum 6061 T6

[Alan1234]

If you want to weld 6061 T6, how do you restore the mechanical properties? Can you perform a PWHT in the field?

 

[swall]

The only way to restore the properties is to re-solution treat and age the part. No something you can do with a PWHT.

 

[metengr]

I would suggest you visit this web site (see Technical Knowledge) to gain an understanding of welding of aluminium structures. You have options;

http://www.alcotec.com/us/en/education/knowledge/index.cfm

 

[swall]

Alan1234--the link provided by metengr is a good one. The gist of it is that you deal with the inherent loss of mech properties in welded 6061-T6 by first trying to mitigate the degradation by controlling the heat input. You also deal with the inherent loss of strength by beefing up the section sizes in the welded joint (or putting the joint in a low stress area). With today's processes, like hydroforming of tube sections, you have the option of making the section thicker just in the weld zone. Ditto for the use of castings in the welded structure--just make it thicker where it needs to be.