Aluminum 6061 is one of the most commonly available heat-treatable aluminum alloys for commercial use. It sets the standard for a medium-to-high strength, lightweight, economical material. It is also famous for its structural strength and toughness, good surface finish, great corrosion resistance to atmosphere and sea water, perfect machinability, and its ability to be easily welded and joined.

Aluminum 6061 is used extensively as a construction material, most typically in the manufacture of marine and automotive components.

Aluminum 7075 is a cold-wrought alloy and the strongest of the aluminum alloys, or as strong as some lower-grade steel products, but it is lighter in weight. This alloy can be easily shaped, chipped and manipulated by machines. However, it is considered a poor choice for welding, but can be joined by resistance welding.

As a result of these well-balanced properties, 7075 alloy sheet and plate products are commonly used in products where strength, corrosion resistance and high stress-reduction capabilities are important, such as rock-climbing equipment, hang glider airframes, bike frames, gears, regulating valve parts and shafts. Because it can be highly polished, 7075 alloy is also widely used in mold tool manufacture, particularly in the plastics industry.

Aluminum 5052 alloy is one of the higher strength, non-heat-treatable alloys. Good workability makes it very useful in forming operations. It has very good corrosion resistance, especially to salt water, and can be easily welded. Its high fatigue strength makes it an excellent selection for structures that need to withstand excessive vibrations. However, this alloy is rated only fair for machinability, so it is not the best choice for extensive machining operations without oil lubricants.

Due to its light weight, high strength and attractive finishing capabilities, it can be used to make smaller, thinner components, such as those used in consumer electronics. Aluminum 5052 is regularly used in general sheet metal work.