This type of hardening typically is performed in an inert-atmosphere vacuum at temperatures between 900 and 1,150 degrees F. To create these precipitates, the aluminum is heated using a solution treatment at high temperatures and at a prescribed time, then quenched for rapid cooling. Once the particles become dispersed, they hinder any further dislocation of the grain, thereby strengthening the metal. T6 aluminum is precipitation-hardened, which is a form of artificial aging that causes particles within the metal to be spread evenly throughout the grain structure of the metal. Alas, it’s the life of a press brake operator.
That’s the ideal, anyway, but the reality is that many parts arrive at the press brake in a less than ideal state. From a bending perspective, it’s always best to bend these parts in an annealed state and then temper them to the correct condition. Question: We’re having trouble bending 6061-T6 aluminum without cracking, and I was wondering if you could give us a few pointers?Īnswer: 6061-T6 aluminum is tempered and notorious for not bending easily.
