Aluminum Products

Aluminum Alloy Series Guide: 1000 to 7000

Complete breakdown of aluminum alloy series and their applications in aerospace, automotive, construction, and more.

5 min read
December 2024

Aluminum Alloy Designation System

Aluminum alloys are classified into series (1000-8000) based on their primary alloying element. Each series has distinct properties and applications.

1xxx

1000 Series - Pure Aluminum

99% minimum aluminum content. Excellent corrosion resistance and formability.

Common Alloys:

1100, 1050, 1060, 1350

Applications:

Foil, chemical equipment, reflectors

2xxx

2000 Series - Copper Alloys

High strength, heat treatable. Excellent machinability but lower corrosion resistance.

Common Alloys:

2024, 2014, 2219

Applications:

Aerospace structures, aircraft parts

3xxx

3000 Series - Manganese Alloys

Moderate strength with excellent corrosion resistance and formability.

Common Alloys:

3003, 3004, 3105

Applications:

Cooking utensils, roofing, beverage cans

5xxx

5000 Series - Magnesium Alloys

Medium to high strength, excellent corrosion resistance, especially in marine environments.

Common Alloys:

5052, 5083, 5086, 5454

Applications:

Marine, automotive, pressure vessels

6xxx

6000 Series - Magnesium & Silicon Alloys

Heat treatable, good corrosion resistance, excellent extrudability. Most popular series.

Common Alloys:

6061, 6063, 6082

Applications:

Structural, automotive, furniture, pipelines

7xxx

7000 Series - Zinc Alloys

Highest strength aluminum alloys. Heat treatable. Used where maximum strength is required.

Common Alloys:

7075, 7050, 7005

Applications:

Aerospace, military, high-stress parts

🎯 Most Popular Choice: 6061-T6

6061-T6 is the most versatile aluminum alloy, offering an excellent balance of strength, corrosion resistance, weldability, and cost. It's the go-to choice for 80% of structural applications.

Need Aluminum Alloys?

ZeVo Metals supplies certified aluminum in all series with full documentation