6061 Aluminum T6511 temper: 5/16" dia rod: Hook bending?
6061 Aluminum T6511 temper: 5/16" dia rod: Hook bending?
(OP)
I need to make a few new sliding latches (no load applied to pin) from 5/16"Φ aluminum round stock and bend a 90° hook at one end (around a 1"Φ pin).
I can get some inexpensive 36" long stock from Amazon in 6061 Al T6511 temper. Would this material be suitable for such a bend?
I can get some inexpensive 36" long stock from Amazon in 6061 Al T6511 temper. Would this material be suitable for such a bend?





RE: 6061 Aluminum T6511 temper: 5/16" dia rod: Hook bending?
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P.E. Metallurgy, Plymouth Tube
RE: 6061 Aluminum T6511 temper: 5/16" dia rod: Hook bending?
RE: 6061 Aluminum T6511 temper: 5/16" dia rod: Hook bending?
Many thanks for the reply.
I purchased the product (less than $25) and will give it a trial. I shall report back with my results, and if I need to anneal it after my first trial.
Thank you.
RE: 6061 Aluminum T6511 temper: 5/16" dia rod: Hook bending?
Red-rust on the Latch-pin in the photo implies the pin shown is steel, probably ~Ftu ~60-KSI.
Typically I would disposition to form the Latch-Pin in the -T4 temper [bend radius TBD]; then Age harden to -T6 per any valid aluminum alloy heat treat spec, [AMS, MIL, ASTM]. This does (2) important things: improved ductility in -T4 temper makes the part easier to form to a tighter bend radius without threat of cracks or significant Ludder's lines; and the long Aging HT is a great stress relief operation.
Why Do you really want to make the pin from aluminum?? What I am most concerned about is what You intend to use the pin for: 'sliding latch'. IF in constant use, then the pin could wear-out rapidly. IF relied on for security, then it could be more easily damaged by a vandal/burglar.
You can probably find a steel 'rifle-bolt' or pre-bent Latch Pin [5/16-Dia] at a hardware store for much less than You think... and the steel would already have a tapered tip and zinc plating.
Regards, Wil Taylor
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RE: 6061 Aluminum T6511 temper: 5/16" dia rod: Hook bending?
RE: 6061 Aluminum T6511 temper: 5/16" dia rod: Hook bending?
Thank you for your comments/input.
RE: 6061 Aluminum T6511 temper: 5/16" dia rod: Hook bending?
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