MetalsWhat is 7075 aluminum and what is it used for? The highest-strength aluminum
7075 aluminum (7075-T651) is the maximum-strength aluminum. In this guide we explain what 7075 aluminum is, its composition, its properties, what it is used for and the sizes we stock.
What is 7075 aluminum?
7075-T651 aluminum is an aluminum-zinc-magnesium-copper alloy with very high mechanical strength. It stands out for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, good machinability and ability to withstand high loads, although it has lower weldability and corrosion resistance than 6000-series alloys.
Chemical composition of 7075 aluminum
This is the typical composition of 7075 aluminum (Commercial 7075-T651 / ASTM B209 and B211 / UNS A97075 / EN AW-7075 / DIN 3.4365 standard):
| Element | Contents | What for? |
|---|---|---|
| Silicon (Si) | 0.40 % max. | Alloying element |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.50 % max. | Controlled impurity |
| Copper (Cu) | 1.20 – 2.00 % | Adds strength (slightly lowers corrosion resistance) |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.30 % max. | Alloying element |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 2.10 – 2.90 % | Increases strength through precipitation |
| Chromium (Cr) | 0.18 – 0.28 % | Improves corrosion resistance |
| Zinc (Zn) | 5.10 – 6.10 % | Main alloying element: provides the very high strength |
| Titanium (Ti) | 0.20 % max. | Refines the grain |
| Others (each) | 0.05 % max. | Other elements, kept limited |
| Others (total) | 0.15 % max. | Sum of others, limited |
| Aluminum (Al) | Balance | Base metal |
7075 properties and temper
7075 is one of the strongest aluminums there is: in T651 temper it reaches a tensile strength on the order of 570 MPa and a hardness close to 150 HB, comparable to that of many steels but at one-third the weight. It is heat treatable (7000 series alloy, zinc); the T651 temper means it was solution heat treated, stretched to relieve stresses and artificially aged. It machines very well. In exchange, it has lower weldability and lower corrosion resistance than 6061, so in aggressive environments it is usually anodized or protected.
What is it for? Applications of 7075
7075 aluminum is mainly used in:
- Aerospace components
- High-stress structural parts
- High-strength molds and tooling
- Axles, shafts and mechanical components
- Fixtures and bases for demanding applications
- Parts subject to high loads
- Racing and automotive components
- Precision base plates
- Precision machined components
Forms and sizes we carry
At NAT MAC we stock 7075 aluminum in these forms and sizes:
| Package size | Sizes |
|---|---|
| Plates | 1/4" – 6" (6.35 – 152.4 mm) |
| Round bars | 1" – 6" (25.4 – 152.4 mm) |
If you need a particular size, tell us which one and we will gladly source it for you.
7075 equivalents and standards
7075 aluminum is also identified by these standards: Commercial 7075-T651 / ASTM B209 and B211 / UNS A97075 / EN AW-7075 / DIN 3.4365. You can see how to read them in our article on metal standards.
In summary
- 7075-T651 is a zinc-magnesium-copper aluminum of very high strength
- Heat treatable; ~570 MPa and ~150 HB, with an excellent strength-to-weight ratio
- Lower weldability and corrosion resistance than 6061 (anodizing recommended)
- Ideal for aerospace, tooling, molds and high-stress parts
- We carry it in plates, round bars, cut to size
Why buy your 7075 aluminum at NAT MAC?
We have more than 54 years of experience as an industrial supplier and ISO 9001 certified quality. We carry quality aluminum and help you choose the right alloy for your project.
- Quality 7075 Aluminum, backed and traceable
- Material cut to the size you need
- Advice on choosing between 3003, 6061 and 7075 for your part
- Plate, round bar, flat bar and sheet depending on the alloy
- On-time deliveries and competitive prices
Tell us what you are going to make and in what dimensions, and we will recommend the right alloy and form. Request your free quote.
Sources: data sheet from our NAT MAC catalog (composition, sizes and applications) and public references from the aluminum industry. Values are for reference and may vary by standard, temper and heat.
