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Are 1060 and 1070 aluminum really that different? Both are highly pure alloys used widely in industry. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right material.
In this post, you’ll learn about the key distinctions between 1060 Aluminum and 1070 aluminum. We’ll explore their properties and common applications.
1060-H22 aluminum and 1070-H22 aluminum are both part of the 1xxx series, known for their high purity. The 1060 alloy aluminum contains about 99.6% to 100% aluminum, while 1070 aluminum has slightly higher purity, ranging from 99.7% to 100%. This small difference in aluminum content means 1070 aluminum is marginally purer.
Both alloys contain trace amounts of elements like copper, iron, silicon, magnesium, manganese, titanium, vanadium, and zinc. However, 1060-H22 typically allows slightly higher maximum percentages of copper (up to 0.05%) and iron (up to 0.35%) compared to 1070-H22, which limits copper to 0.04% and iron to 0.25%. These subtle variations influence mechanical and conductive properties.
Element | 1060-H22 (%) | 1070-H22 (%) |
|---|---|---|
Aluminum (Al) | 99.6 - 100 | 99.7 - 100 |
Copper (Cu) | 0 - 0.05 | 0 - 0.04 |
Iron (Fe) | 0 - 0.35 | 0 - 0.25 |
Silicon (Si) | 0 - 0.25 | 0 - 0.20 |
Magnesium (Mg) | 0 - 0.03 | 0 - 0.03 |
Manganese (Mn) | 0 - 0.03 | 0 - 0.03 |
Both alloys share similar mechanical properties due to their high purity and the H22 temper, which combines strain hardening and partial annealing. However, 1070-H22 aluminum exhibits a higher elongation at break, about 10%, compared to 6.8% for 1060-H22. This means 1070 aluminum is more ductile and better suited for applications requiring more forming or bending.
Regarding yield strength, 1060-H22 aluminum tends to have a slightly higher yield strength (~9.7 ksi) compared to 1070-H22 (~9.1 ksi). This difference, although small, can impact structural applications where the aluminium 1060 yield strength is a critical factor.
Property | 1060-H22 | 1070-H22 |
|---|---|---|
Elongation at Break (%) | 6.8 | 10 |
Yield Strength (ksi) | 9.7 | 9.1 |
Ultimate Tensile Strength (ksi) | 13 | 13 |
Thermal conductivity is crucial for heat transfer applications. 1060-H22 aluminum has a slight advantage with a thermal conductivity of about 140 BTU/h-ft-°F, while 1070-H22 is around 130 BTU/h-ft-°F. This makes 1060 aluminum sheet or plate preferable for thermal management roles like heat exchangers.
Electrical conductivity values between the two alloys are close, but 1060-H22 generally leads marginally. It registers about 62% IACS (International Annealed Copper Standard) by volume, compared to 61% for 1070-H22. Weight-based conductivity also favors 1060, making it slightly better for electrical equipment and cable sheath applications where conductivity is key.
Trace elements like copper, iron, and silicon influence mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, and conductivity. The slightly higher copper and iron in 1060-H22 can increase strength but may reduce conductivity and ductility marginally. In contrast, 1070-H22’s lower impurity levels enhance ductility and maintain high conductivity, beneficial for forming and electrical uses.
The H22 temper involves strain hardening followed by partial annealing. Both alloys respond similarly, balancing strength and ductility. However, due to the higher purity and lower impurities, 1070-H22 aluminum maintains better elongation after treatment, while 1060-H22 offers slightly higher yield strength. This temper is ideal for applications needing moderate strength with good formability.
1060-H22 Aluminum: Higher thermal and electrical conductivity, slightly higher yield strength, less ductile. Best for applications like heat exchangers and electrical conductors where conductivity is paramount.
1070-H22 Aluminum: Slightly purer, more ductile with higher elongation, marginally lower conductivity and yield strength. Ideal for forming-heavy applications requiring toughness and plasticity.
1060 aluminum, especially in the H22 temper, is known for its moderate tensile strength and yield strength, making it a reliable choice for many structural applications. The aluminium 1060 yield strength typically measures around 9.7 ksi (67 MPa), which provides sufficient resistance to deformation under moderate loads. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) is about 13 ksi (90 MPa), indicating the maximum stress the material can withstand before failure.
This balance of strength is largely due to the alloy’s high purity and the cold working process inherent in the H22 temper. While 1060 aluminum plate or sheet does not match the strength of heavily alloyed aluminum grades, it offers a dependable structural performance for lightweight applications.
Ductility is a key factor when selecting materials for forming and shaping. The elongation at break for 1060 aluminum is around 6.8%, reflecting moderate ductility. This means the material can stretch to nearly 7% of its original length before fracturing.
Compared to other tempers like 1060 h12 aluminum, which typically has lower elongation, the H22 temper provides a good compromise between strength and formability. The moderate ductility allows 1060 alloy aluminum to be used in applications requiring some bending or shaping without cracking.
Fatigue strength refers to the material’s ability to withstand repeated cyclic loading without failure. For 1060 aluminum, the fatigue strength is approximately 7.3 ksi (50 MPa). This level supports durability in applications where the aluminum 1060 sheet or plate undergoes fluctuating stresses, such as in electrical equipment housings or light structural components.
Though 1060 aluminum is not designed for high-stress fatigue environments, its performance is adequate for many low to moderate fatigue applications, especially where corrosion resistance and conductivity are also priorities.
The modulus of elasticity for 1060 aluminum is about 9.9 million psi (68 GPa), indicating its stiffness under elastic deformation. This stiffness is consistent with other commercially pure aluminum alloys and helps predict deflection under load.
Shear strength, an important property for applications involving torsion or sliding forces, is around 7.6 ksi (52 MPa). This value supports the use of 1060 alloy in components like electrical connectors and thin-walled structures where shear forces are common.
When considering 1060 aluminum sheet or plate for structural purposes, the key takeaway is its balance of moderate strength, good ductility, and excellent conductivity. This alloy excels where weight savings and corrosion resistance are critical, such as in architectural panels or heat exchangers.
However, for projects demanding higher yield strength or greater elongation, other alloys or tempers might be more suitable. The 1060 aluminum’s mechanical properties suggest it is best applied in roles that prioritize conductivity and moderate mechanical performance over heavy load-bearing capacity.
Tip: When selecting 1060 alloy aluminum for structural parts, consider its moderate yield strength and ductility to ensure it meets your load and forming requirements without compromising conductivity.
1070 aluminum, like 1060, belongs to the commercially pure 1xxx aluminum series, boasting a nominal aluminum content of about 99.7%. In the H22 temper, it exhibits a tensile strength similar to 1060, typically around 13 ksi (90 MPa) ultimate tensile strength. However, its yield strength is slightly lower, about 9.1 ksi (63 MPa), compared to 1060 aluminum’s 9.7 ksi. This modest difference reflects 1070’s higher purity and reduced trace elements, which slightly reduce its resistance to permanent deformation.
This lower yield strength means 1070 aluminum can deform more before it begins to yield, making it suitable for applications where flexibility under load is beneficial.
One of the standout mechanical features of 1070 aluminum is its higher elongation at break, which is about 10%. This is significantly greater than the roughly 6.8% elongation of 1060 aluminum in the H22 temper. Higher elongation indicates superior ductility, allowing 1070 alloy aluminum to stretch more without fracturing.
This characteristic benefits manufacturing processes that involve bending, forming, or deep drawing. For instance, 1070 aluminum sheet can be shaped into complex parts without cracking, which is vital in industries like electrical enclosures or decorative panels.
Fatigue strength measures how well a material withstands repeated stress cycles. 1070 aluminum has a fatigue strength close to 7.1 ksi (49 MPa), slightly less than 1060 aluminum’s 7.3 ksi. Although the difference is minor, it suggests 1060 aluminum may last marginally longer under cyclic loading conditions.
Still, 1070’s fatigue strength remains adequate for many applications, especially where high ductility and formability take precedence over maximum fatigue resistance.
The modulus of elasticity for 1070 aluminum is about 9.9 million psi (68 GPa), identical to that of 1060. This means both alloys have similar stiffness, resisting elastic deformation equally under load.
Shear strength, a critical factor in torsional or sliding force applications, is approximately 7.6 ksi (52 MPa) for 1070 aluminum, matching 1060 aluminum’s value. This parity ensures that 1070 alloy aluminum can reliably handle shear stresses in structural or mechanical components.
Due to its higher elongation and excellent ductility, 1070 aluminum is often preferred in applications demanding extensive forming or bending. Its ability to undergo significant plastic deformation without cracking makes it ideal for manufacturing complex shapes.
Common uses include:
Electrical busbars and conductor strips that require bending
Heat sinks and thermal spreaders shaped to fit intricate designs
Reflectors and lamp housings needing precise forming
Architectural panels and decorative facades requiring smooth bends
The enhanced formability of 1070 h22 aluminum allows manufacturers to optimize designs without compromising material integrity.
Tip: When your project demands high ductility and complex shaping, choose 1070 aluminum for its superior elongation and formability compared to 1060 aluminum.
Both 1060-H22 aluminum and 1070-H22 aluminum are excellent conductors of heat, thanks to their high purity. However, 1060 aluminum sheet and plate have a slight edge in thermal conductivity, rated at approximately 140 BTU/h-ft-°F. In contrast, 1070-H22 aluminum measures around 130 BTU/h-ft-°F. This means 1060 alloy aluminum transfers heat more efficiently, making it the preferred choice for applications like heat exchangers and thermal management systems where rapid heat dissipation is critical.
Both alloys share similar specific heat capacities, roughly 0.22 BTU/lb-°F, indicating they absorb and retain heat at comparable rates. Thermal expansion coefficients are close too, with 1060 aluminum expanding about 24 µm/m-K and 1070 slightly less at 23 µm/m-K. These values are important for designers to consider when components undergo temperature changes, ensuring dimensional stability and preventing stress from thermal mismatch.
Electrical conductivity is another area where 1060 aluminum shines slightly. By volume, 1060-H22 aluminum achieves about 62% IACS (International Annealed Copper Standard), while 1070-H22 is close behind at 61%. When measured by weight, 1060 aluminum's specific conductivity is around 210% IACS, compared to 200% for 1070. This subtle difference means 1060 alloy aluminum is marginally better at conducting electricity, which is why 1060 aluminum sheet is often used in electrical equipment, cable sheaths, and electronic components requiring efficient current flow.
In industries such as electrical distribution, electronics cooling, and HVAC systems, these thermal and electrical properties directly impact performance and energy efficiency. For example, using 1060 aluminum in heat exchangers improves heat transfer, reducing energy consumption. Similarly, its superior electrical conductivity lowers resistance and heat generation in cables and connectors.
When selecting between 1060 and 1070 aluminum for heat or electrical roles, consider these factors:
Prioritize 1060 Aluminum if maximum thermal and electrical conductivity is essential. Its slightly higher purity and conductivity make it ideal for conductors and heat transfer components.
Opt for 1070 Aluminum if formability and ductility are more critical, especially when slight compromises in conductivity are acceptable.
Both alloys offer excellent corrosion resistance and are suitable for harsh environments, but the minor differences in conductivity and thermal performance can influence the overall system efficiency.
Tip: For projects demanding top-tier thermal and electrical conductivity, choose 1060 aluminum sheet or plate to maximize performance and energy efficiency.
1060-H22 aluminum is an excellent choice for heat exchangers and thermal management systems. Its superior thermal conductivity, around 140 BTU/h-ft-°F, allows it to transfer heat efficiently. This makes 1060 aluminum sheet and plate ideal in HVAC units, radiators, and cooling fins where rapid heat dissipation is critical. The alloy’s moderate strength and corrosion resistance also support long-term durability in these environments.
Thanks to its high electrical conductivity—about 62% IACS by volume—1060 alloy aluminum is widely used in electrical equipment and cable sheaths. It ensures minimal electrical resistance, reducing energy loss and heat generation in conductors. The alloy’s good formability in the H22 temper allows for easy manufacturing of cables and connectors without compromising conductivity.
Electronic components that demand efficient current flow benefit from 1060-H22 aluminum’s excellent electrical properties. The alloy’s consistent conductivity and corrosion resistance make it suitable for busbars, circuit boards, and electronic housings. Its ability to maintain performance under thermal cycling enhances reliability in sensitive electronics.
High Purity: Ensures excellent thermal and electrical conductivity.
Good Corrosion Resistance: Maintains performance in harsh environments.
Moderate Strength: Supports structural integrity without sacrificing conductivity.
Fabrication Flexibility: H22 temper balances strength and formability for manufacturing ease.
These advantages make 1060 aluminum sheet and plate the preferred material in roles where conductivity is a top priority.
Tip: For projects prioritizing heat transfer or electrical efficiency, choose 1060-H22 aluminum sheet or plate to maximize conductivity and durability.
1070-H22 aluminum stands out for its superior ductility and formability compared to 1060 aluminum. Thanks to its higher elongation at break—about 10%—it easily accommodates stretching and bending without cracking. This makes 1070 alloy aluminum ideal for parts that require extensive shaping or deformation during manufacturing. For example, it suits components that undergo deep drawing or complex forming processes, where flexibility is crucial.
Because of its excellent plasticity, 1070-H22 aluminum is frequently chosen for bending and forming tasks. Its ability to maintain integrity under strain allows manufacturers to create intricate shapes and thin-walled sections without failure. This capability benefits industries producing electrical busbars, heat sinks, and architectural panels that demand tight bends or smooth curves. The H22 temper balances strength and ductility, ensuring the material performs well during fabrication and in service.
In applications where toughness and plasticity are paramount, 1070 aluminum’s characteristics shine. It resists cracking during mechanical deformation better than 1060 alloy aluminum, making it suitable for parts exposed to mechanical stress or vibration. This includes electrical connectors, reflectors, and decorative elements that must combine durability with ease of manufacturing. Its consistent formability also reduces scrap rates and improves production efficiency.
Several industries prefer 1070-H22 aluminum due to its formability and conductivity balance:
Electrical and Power Distribution: Busbars and conductor strips shaped to fit complex assemblies.
Thermal Management: Heat sinks and thermal spreaders requiring precise shaping for optimal cooling.
Lighting and Reflectors: Lamp reflectors and mirror substrates needing smooth, complex curves.
Architecture: Decorative panels and cladding with intricate bends and surface finishes.
These examples illustrate how 1070 alloy aluminum meets the demands of applications where forming and ductility are critical without sacrificing conductivity.
Tip: Choose 1070-H22 aluminum sheet or plate when your project demands high ductility and complex shaping to ensure durable, formable components with excellent conductivity.
When choosing between 1060 aluminum and 1070 aluminum, start by evaluating your mechanical needs. If your project demands a higher aluminium 1060 yield strength, 1060-H22 aluminum offers slightly better resistance to deformation, typically around 9.7 ksi, compared to about 9.1 ksi for 1070-H22. This makes 1060 aluminum sheet or plate more suited for applications where moderate strength is necessary.
However, if ductility and elongation are more critical—say, for parts that require extensive bending or forming—1070-H22 aluminum’s higher elongation at break (about 10%) provides superior plasticity. This means it can stretch more without cracking, ideal for complex shapes and thin-walled components.
Thermal and electrical conductivity are key factors in many applications. 1060 aluminum sheet and plate slightly outperform 1070 in these areas, with thermal conductivity around 140 BTU/h-ft-°F and electrical conductivity near 62% IACS by volume. This makes 1060 alloy aluminum the preferred choice for heat exchangers, electrical conductors, and cable sheaths where efficient heat transfer or current flow is essential.
On the other hand, 1070 aluminum’s conductivity is close but marginally lower—about 130 BTU/h-ft-°F thermal and 61% IACS electrical conductivity. If your project prioritizes formability over absolute conductivity, 1070 remains a strong candidate.
Fabrication methods heavily influence alloy selection. The 1060 h12 aluminum temper, for example, offers less elongation compared to the H22 temper but is still widely used where moderate forming is needed. Both 1060 and 1070 alloys respond well to cold working, but 1070’s higher purity and ductility make it easier to form intricate shapes without cracking.
If your manufacturing involves deep drawing, bending, or complex shaping, 1070-H22 aluminum is advantageous. For simpler forming or where strength and conductivity dominate, 1060-H22 aluminum is more suitable.
Both 1060 and 1070 aluminum alloys are commercially pure and generally cost-competitive. Their base metal prices are similar, but availability can differ depending on supplier stock and regional preferences. 1060 aluminum is widely stocked due to its balance of properties, while 1070 may be less common but preferred in specialized applications.
Consider your supply chain and lead times. Also, factor in any additional fabrication costs related to forming difficulty or yield losses from scrap.
Factor | 1060 Aluminum (H22) | 1070 Aluminum (H22) |
|---|---|---|
Yield Strength | Slightly higher (~9.7 ksi) | Slightly lower (~9.1 ksi) |
Elongation at Break | Moderate (~6.8%) | Higher (~10%) |
Thermal Conductivity | Higher (~140 BTU/h-ft-°F) | Slightly lower (~130 BTU/h-ft-°F) |
Electrical Conductivity | Slightly higher (~62% IACS) | Slightly lower (~61% IACS) |
Formability | Good, but less ductile | Excellent, better for complex forming |
Typical Applications | Heat exchangers, electrical conductors | Bent or formed components, busbars |
Cost and Availability | Generally more available, competitive | Slightly less common, similar cost |
By carefully weighing these factors—mechanical strength, ductility, conductivity, fabrication ease, and supply considerations—you can select the alloy that best fits your project's performance and manufacturing needs.
Tip: Prioritize 1060 aluminum for projects needing superior conductivity and moderate strength, and choose 1070 aluminum when higher ductility and complex forming are essential.
1060-H22 and 1070-H22 aluminum differ mainly in purity, ductility, and conductivity. 1060 offers higher thermal and electrical conductivity with slightly more strength. In contrast, 1070 provides better elongation and formability for complex shaping. Choosing the right alloy depends on your project’s strength, conductivity, and forming needs. Yuqi Metal offers high-quality aluminum products that deliver excellent performance and reliability for diverse industrial applications. Trust their expertise to guide you in selecting the ideal aluminum solution.
A: 1060 aluminum contains about 99.6% to 100% aluminum with slightly higher copper and iron levels, while 1070 aluminum is purer at 99.7% to 100%, with lower copper and iron. This affects their conductivity and mechanical properties.
A: 1060 aluminum typically has a slightly higher yield strength (~9.7 ksi) than 1070 aluminum (~9.1 ksi), making it better for applications requiring moderate strength.
A: Due to its higher thermal conductivity (~140 BTU/h-ft-°F) and electrical conductivity (~62% IACS), 1060 aluminum sheet and plate efficiently transfer heat and electricity, ideal for heat exchangers and electrical conductors.
A: 1060 aluminum has moderate ductility with about 6.8% elongation, whereas 1070 aluminum offers higher elongation (~10%), making 1070 better suited for forming and bending applications.
A: 1060 alloy aluminum is widely used in heat exchangers, electrical equipment, cable sheaths, and electronic components requiring excellent conductivity and moderate strength.
