In aluminum and glass work, many people only look at the design. However, its strength and durability depend on the grade of the aluminum. Whether you are getting windows, doors, or commercial partitions made, you should know which grade is used where.
What is Aluminum Grade?
Aluminum is made by mixing it with various metals like magnesium, silicon, and zinc to increase its strength. Depending on the amount of these metals, aluminum is given different numbers or grades. There are thousands of grades in the world of aluminum, but the following grades are most famous in construction and glass work.
Grade 6063 (Architectural Grade)
This is the most commonly used grade in aluminum work. It is used in windows, doors, and glass frames. Its finishing is very good, and powder coating and anodizing look excellent on it. It has great resistance against rust.
Grade 6061 (Structural Grade)
This is stronger than 6063. It is used in heavy load-bearing structures, stairs, and places where strength is the first priority. It can withstand more pressure, but its finishing is not as shiny as 6063.
What does T mean with the grade?
You may have often heard "6063-T5" or "6063-T6." Here, T stands for "Temper," which means how much the aluminum was hardened by heating and cooling.
T5: This is the best and standard hardness for common windows.
T6: This is harder than T5 and is used in industrial works.
Why is choosing the right grade important?
If you use a light or wrong grade in a place where air pressure is high, such as the upper floors of a plaza, the frames can bend. Our advice is to choose 6063-T5 grade for exterior windows. In coastal areas near the sea, use aluminum with an anodized finish to protect it from salt.
For more information about aluminum and glass work, visit our website.
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