Precision Ground Bar Supplier Supporting Chicago Manufacturing Companies
October 21, 2026
How Alloy Steel Precision Ground Bars Support High Strength Industrial Components
October 25, 2026
6061 is the most popular aluminum grade, and 7075 is known for very high strength. Both are aluminum alloys, but they’re specified for different reasons. Choosing the right grade starts with understanding the requirements of the finished component.
We’re Precision Ground Metals, Inc. in Palos Hills, IL, and we’ve spent more than 30 years in the steel industry and grinding, supplying round bars and precision ground bars to engineers, machinists, and buyers. Here’s how we’d frame the choice between these two grades when a precision machined component is on the line.
Choosing Between 6061 and 7075 Aluminum for Machined Parts
Both 6061 and 7075 are used in aerospace applications, but they are not selected for identical reasons. Comparing the intended application, strength requirements, and material specifications can help you narrow down which grade to discuss for your next machined component.
What do 6061 and 7075 have in common?
Both come from the same material family, and we supply aluminum as round bars and precision ground bars. Aluminum is generally valued for its light weight, corrosion resistance, machinability, and thermal and electrical conductivity, although specific properties vary by alloy. That combination is why you see it in aerospace, automotive, marine, robotics, medical equipment, structural work, and hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders.
So the starting point is shared. The difference comes down to what each grade is known for and where it’s typically specified.
Where does 6061 fit?
6061 is used across aerospace, automotive, and structural applications. That reach is its strength. When a part needs aluminum’s light weight and machinability for a general structural or automotive role, 6061 is often the grade engineers reach for first.
Where does 7075 fit?
7075 is the grade people specify when strength drives the design. It’s known for very high strength and is used in aerospace and high performance applications.
That said, don’t specify 7075 just because it sounds like an upgrade. The final choice still needs to reflect the component’s actual specifications.
How should you decide for a precision machined component?
Start with what the part has to do. If the design calls for broad use across aerospace, automotive, or structural work, 6061 is the usual starting point. If very high strength in a high performance role drives the design, look at 7075.
If you’re in aerospace and weighing other high strength options, 2024 is also available and is known for high strength in aerospace work. We also carry 1100, 5052, 5086, and 6063 for applications ranging from chemical and food processing to marine, shipbuilding, and architectural work.
When the decision comes down to specific mechanical properties or temper, we’d rather talk it through with you than guess.
Why does precision ground aluminum matter?
Grade is only half the spec. Our precision ground aluminum bars are held within ±0.001″. For a precision machined component, starting with stock that’s already close to size can reduce the amount of material that needs to be removed during machining. That matters when you’re specifying robotics parts or hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders.
What prep and compliance should you plan for?
We offer straightening, chamfering, and custom cutting as part of our bar preparation services. Protective packaging keeps material in condition during transit, and we deliver to your location.
We supply material with DFARS, REACH, and RoHS compliance, and most of our materials are domestically made. If your program carries any of those requirements, flag them early so we can confirm them for your grade.
What should you include in your quote request?
Along with your contact details and material of interest, use the special request notes for the details that define the part: grade (6061 or 7075), whether you need round bars or precision ground bars, tolerance, lengths, and any straightening, chamfering, or cutting.
Talk to Us Before You Lock the Grade
If you’re stuck between 6061 and 7075, send us the part, the application, and what it needs to hold. We’ll help you match the bar to the job. Call (708) 400-7217, email sales@precisiongroundmetals.com, or use our Request A Quote form.
FAQs
What is the main difference between 6061 and 7075 aluminum?
6061 is the most popular grade and is used in aerospace, automotive, and structural applications. 7075 is known for very high strength and is used in aerospace and high performance applications.
Can I request 6061 or 7075 aluminum as precision ground bars?
We supply aluminum as round bars and precision ground bars, with precision ground tolerances within ±0.001″. Note your preferred grade on the quote form and we’ll confirm availability.
Which other aluminum grades do you carry?
Beyond 6061 and 7075, we offer 1100, 2024, 5052, 5086, and 6063.
Can you cut and prep aluminum bars before shipping?
We offer straightening, chamfered bar ends, custom cut lengths, protective packaging, and delivery to your location.
