Aluminum 6082-T6
Frequently asked questions
Can Aluminum 6082-T6 be laser cut?
With some limitations: Aluminum 6082-T6 can be laser cut.
Can Aluminum 6082-T6 be CNC machined?
Yes: Aluminum 6082-T6 can be CNC machined.
Is Aluminum 6082-T6 food safe?
Aluminum 6082-T6 is food safe only after a suitable finishing treatment.
Physical properties
| Density | 2710.0–2710.0 kg/m³ |
|---|---|
| Brinell hardness | 95.0 HB |
| Tensile strength | 310.0 MPa |
| Melting point | 555.0–650.0 °C |
| Thermal expansion | 23.1 µm/m·K |
| Moisture absorption | Negligible |
Laser processing
Laser marking does not generate hazardous fumes in the absence of lubricants or surface oils.
CO₂: High reflectance: CO2 cutting is impossible. Surface engraving requires chemical marking sprays (Cermark). Risk of beam reflection back toward the optics.
Diode: Impossible to cut or mark directly with diode lasers due to high reflectance.
Fiber: Excellent. Fiber lasers produce high-contrast black marks by oxidative darkening. Cutting is possible on thin gauges (≤2mm) with adequate power.
CNC / milling processing
Excellent machinability, virtually equivalent to 6061. 6082 is the most widely used structural alloy in Europe for CNC milling of mechanical components. 1–2 flute aluminum-specific cutters; air blast or mist cooling is sufficient for most roughing operations.
Post-processing
Sanding: Identical to 6061 in sanding. Wet silicon carbide paper for pre-anodizing finishes. Grit 220 → 400 → 800.
Primer: mandatory. Like 6061, painting requires non-ferrous etch primer to ensure long-term adhesion.
Gluing: Bondable with two-component structural epoxy adhesives after degreasing with acetone or isopropanol.
Over time: Spontaneously forms a protective surface oxide layer. Excellent atmospheric corrosion resistance in normal environments; for marine environments prefer 5000 series alloys.
Common defects
- Built-up edge (aluminium welded to the cutter) when machining without aluminium-specific cutters or adequate chip evacuation
- Scratches from chip recirculation in the cutting channel if evacuation is not efficient
Safety
Recommended PPE: eye_protection, mask_p1
Same precautions as 6061. Sharp chips and potentially flammable fine dust. Extraction recommended.
Availability and formats
Commercial formats: round and square bars, sheets, extruded profiles, flat bars
Related materials
Sources
- EN 573-3 — Aluminium and aluminium alloys (EN AW-6082)
- MatWeb — Aluminum 6082-T6 Alloy Datasheet
Information on compatibility, processing parameters and safety is purely indicative. MakerSpecs accepts no liability for damage to persons or property arising from the use of this data. Always check the safety rules and the manufacturer's official manuals before carrying out any processing.