6005 aluminium alloy is an alloy in the wrought aluminium-magnesium-silicon family (6000 or 6xxx series). It is closely related, but not identical, to 6005A aluminium alloy. The main difference between the two alloys is that 6005 has a higher minimum composition percentage of aluminium than 6005A (while having essentially the same maximum). The most common forming method is extrusion. It can also be forged or rolled, but as a wrought alloy it is not used in casting. It cannot be work hardened, but is commonly heat treated to produce tempers with a higher strength at the expense of ductility.

Alloy 6005/6005A has properties similar to those of alloys 6106 and 6082 and can sometimes be used interchangeably with them, but 6005/6005A has better extrusion characteristics.

The chemical compositions of 6005 and 6005A are different, however, and should not be confused. Alloy 6005 contains significantly higher amounts of silicon, which reduces the melting temperature and improves its extrudability.

Alloy 6005A differs from 6005 in manganese and chromium content. The additional chromium in 6005A reduces stress corrosion susceptibility and improves toughness, while the extra manganese improves strength as well as extrudability.

Alloy 6005 is similar to alloy 6061. When produced to a -T5 temper, it has the same minimum tensile and yield strength as 6061-T6 and better machinability and strength properties than 6063-T6. Alloy 6005A may also replace 6061 due to its better extrudability and surface appearance.

Both alloys have excellent bending properties but are not recommended for applications where the structure may be susceptible to impact or overloading. And, while they offer a better mill surface finish, it can be difficult to produce thin-wall complicated shapes in 6005/6005A.

Alloy 6005/6005A can be welded or brazed using various commercial methods, although the heat from welding can reduce strength. These alloys also offer good corrosion resistance and finishing characteristics, and respond well to common anodizing methods such as clear, clear and color dye, and hardcoat.

Applications of 6005/6005A

Typical applications for 6005 alloy include:

• Seamless and structural tubing
• Automotive connector stock
• Structural members
• Ladder structures
• Hand rail tubing

Typical applications for 6005A alloy include:

• Truck, trailer, automotive, bus, and rail components
• Platforms, ladders, structures
• Building and construction applications
• Marine applications