Aluminum in Architectural Screens: 6061 or 6063?

PalmSHIELD uses both 6061 and 6063 aluminum in production of our architectural screens.  We select each profile based on its appearance and strength requirements.  What is the difference between these two alloys?

6061 Aluminum is the most commonly used aluminum alloy. It is specified in most applications due to its strength, heat treatability, comparatively easy machining, and weld-ability. It is also capable of being anodized, adding a layer of protection for finished parts.  The main alloy ingredients of 6061 aluminum are magnesium and silicon.   6063  Aluminum is often called architectural aluminum for two reasons.  It has a surface finish that is far smoother than the other commercially available alloys.  Its strength is significantly less (roughly half the strength of 6061), making it suited for applications where strength is not the foremost consideration.

Our louvered screen systems have been engineered to meet both IBC and UBC code requirements.  We also give great consideration to those factors that code requirements do not address such as human contact, falling limbs, shifting footings, etc.  You want a louvered architectural screen system that others cannot simply bend and break.