Aluminum 7075-T6
Frequently asked questions
Can Aluminum 7075-T6 be laser cut?
With some limitations: Aluminum 7075-T6 can be laser cut. Adequate extraction/ventilation is required.
Can Aluminum 7075-T6 be CNC machined?
Yes: Aluminum 7075-T6 can be CNC machined.
Is Aluminum 7075-T6 food safe?
No, Aluminum 7075-T6 is not considered food safe.
Physical properties
| Density | 2810.0–2810.0 kg/m³ |
|---|---|
| Brinell hardness | 150.0 HB |
| Tensile strength | 503.0 MPa |
| Melting point | 477.0–635.0 °C |
| Thermal expansion | 23.6 µm/m·K |
| Moisture absorption | Negligible |
Laser processing
The alloy contains zinc and copper which may release toxic vapors in case of extreme heating (high-power cutting). Ventilation recommended even for marking alone.
CO₂: Like all aluminums, strongly reflects the CO2 beam. Cutting is impossible at maker level; marking requires Cermark.
Diode: Impossible to cut or mark directly with diode lasers.
Fiber: Good with fiber laser. The greater hardness compared to 6061 produces slightly more defined engravings. Oxidative darkening marking is effective.
CNC / milling processing
Good machinability but more demanding than 6061/6082. High strength requires rigid, well-calibrated machines. High hardness wears tools faster than 6000 series. Prefer mist cooling or emulsion for deep roughing operations. Not subject to work-hardening like austenitic steels.
Post-processing
Sanding: More demanding to sand than 6061 given the higher hardness. Wet silicon carbide paper. Pre-anodizing finish requires more passes.
Primer: mandatory. Caution: 7075 corrosion resistance is significantly lower than 6061. It contains zinc and copper which make it more sensitive to galvanic corrosion. Epoxy primer mandatory for exterior use.
Gluing: Bondable with two-component structural epoxies after degreasing. The higher surface hardness requires more aggressive sanding to ensure adhesion.
Over time: Poor atmospheric corrosion resistance compared to 5000 and 6000 series alloys. In humid and saline environments it corrodes quickly if not protected. Always requires anodizing or painting for exterior use.
Common defects
- Intergranular corrosion in humid environments if not adequately surface-protected
- Higher tool wear than 6061/6082 if cutting parameters are not optimised for the higher strength
Safety
Recommended PPE: eye_protection, mask_p2
Contains zinc and copper: not suitable for food contact. Machining dust contains zinc. Extraction and ventilation mandatory during processing.
Availability and formats
Commercial formats: round and square bars, sheets, milling blocks
Related materials
Sources
- EN 573-3 — Aluminium and aluminium alloys (EN AW-7075)
- MatWeb — Aluminum 7075-T6 Alloy Datasheet
- ASM Aerospace Specification Metals
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.