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Aluminum Grades and Temper – Explained!

Not all aluminum is created equal! There are a number of factors - all equally important - that determine the strength of an aluminum part. They are: the grade of the aluminum, the temper, the thickness, and the geometry of the part.

Grade:

Aluminum comes in many different grades - Herd uses what is sometimes referred to as "aircraft grade" or "marine grade" aluminum - the 6000 series aluminum, specifically 6061 aluminum. Don't be fooled by "marketing speak", not all aluminum is created equal.

Temper:

This is the least known quality, but has a HUGE impact on the strength of a material. When aluminum parts or extrusions (click here for an explanation on what an extrusion is) are made, they are cooled at a very specific temperature for a specific length of time. This changes the micro structure of the metal, and can cause the aluminum to be either very soft and workable, or extremely strong and stiff. Using the same grade (6061 for example), you can have one type of temper that is more than 6 times as strong as another temper. This is why we ONLY make bumper channels out of a strong, stiff temper of aluminum. Be sure the bumper you're buying has been extruded.

Thickness:

It's obvious that using thicker material of the same grade and temper will be stronger, so make sure you're comparing apples to apples. Herd uses advanced computer modelling and strength testing to determine THE CORRECT thickness of material for the job at hand. Just like we make sure our bumpers are strong enough to handle whatever stands in your road, we don't put extra unnecessary weight on the front of your truck, just so we can tell you how thick our plate is. A well-designed protection guard should be able to boast about having the thinnest material, while still providing effective protection.

Geometry:

By using the latest computer strength analysis software in the design process, we are able to get the best possible protection for every pound of bumper. From the laser-cut, CNC formed steel bracket in our AeroLT pickup bumpers, to the reinforced structural steel channel used in our SRT models, each part has been designed to meet the needs of you - the Herd owner.