Aluminum Alloys
Aluminum isn’t all created the same. River rafting frames are typically made from three different alloys, all with various strengths and weaknesses.
6063 Easy to bend and weld, but heavier. 31ksi yield strength, 10ksi near welds. Typically found in architectural applications, signs, and other applications where strength is not the highest priority.
6061 Difficult to bend, ok to weld, stronger. 40ksi yield strength, 10ksi near welds. Typically found in automotive and structural applications, as well as many machined parts.
7075 Difficult to bend and weld, strongest. 73ksi yield strength, 73ksi at bonded joints. Typically found in aircraft structures, high end bicycle components, ski poles, and other high performance applications.
Most welded rafting frames are made from 6063, so tend to be quite heavy for a given strength. Some welded frames can be made lighter by creating a 3D structure like Class V cat frames, however full strength can only be restored to a welded structure by heat treating, and that is typically too specialized a process to be used for river rafting.
Most modular frame parts that don’t require welding or bending are made from 6061 alloy.
Better Mounts is the only river raft frame manufacturer to use 7075 aluminum tubing, and we have developed the required processes to bend and bond the material, with no loss of strength.
