Aluminum Melting Point Explained: Why Temperature Matters in Metalworking

What Is the Melting Point of Aluminum?

Pure aluminum melts at approximately 660.3°C (1220.5°F). This relatively low melting point is one of the key reasons aluminum is widely used in casting, extrusion, and precision CNC machining. However, it's important to note that when aluminum is alloyed with elements like silicon, copper, or magnesium, the melting point can vary significantly—sometimes dropping to around 500–630°C depending on the alloy.

• Aluminum 6061: 582–652°C  

• Aluminum 7075: 477–635°C  

• Aluminum 2024: 502–638°C  

• Cast Aluminum (A356): ~555°C  

Why Does Aluminum’s Melting Point Matter in Metalworking?

In industrial production, knowing the melting point of aluminum is critical for process control and material safety. Here’s why:

• Casting – Ensures aluminum flows into molds without partial solidification  

• Heat Treatment – Determines annealing or solution treatment temperatures  

• Welding – Prevents burn-through or distortion during fusion  

• CNC Machining – Guides selection of appropriate spindle speed and feed rate to avoid localized melting  

• Surface Finishing – Impacts the behavior of anodizing and thermal coatings  

For example, if you're working with aluminum 6061 and perform heat treatment at 500°C, you're approaching the lower range of its melting zone. Overheating at this stage can lead to **softening or distortion**, especially in thin-walled CNC parts.

Common Questions About Aluminum’s Melting Point

• Does aluminum melt faster than steel?

   Yes. Steel melts at ~1425–1540°C, more than double aluminum’s melting point.

• Can aluminum melt during CNC machining?

   Yes, if improper cutting parameters or dull tools are used, localized temperatures can exceed 660°C.

• What happens if aluminum is overheated?  

   Overheating can cause surface oxidation, porosity, or even microstructural degradation in alloys.

Expert Tip from Ekinsun CNC

When machining parts close to thermal limits, always consider the specific aluminum alloy and its melting range. At Ekinsun, we analyze thermal behavior during quoting and toolpath simulation to prevent heat-affected issues before they happen.

Metal & Plastic Melting Point Finder

https://www.ekinsun.ltd/tools/metal-melting-point-tool