As the shipbuilding and offshore engineering industries continue to evolve, materials used for docks, floating dry docks, and various marine accessories face increasingly stringent performance demands. Among these materials, 6061 T6 aluminum profiles stand out due to their excellent balance of strength, corrosion resistance, and lightweight properties-making them an ideal choice for the manufacturing of marine aluminum gangways.
What Is an Aluminum Ship Gangway?
Also known as a ship ladder, boarding ladder, or shore gangway, an aluminum gangway is an essential safety device used to provide secure and convenient access between ships and docks (floating, independent, or permanent structures). Each gangway is made using structural 6061 marine-grade aluminum to ensure superior strength and durability.
What Is 6061-T6 Aluminum Profile?
6061 is a classic aluminum-magnesium-silicon alloy (Al-Mg-Si series) known for its excellent machinability and corrosion resistance. The T6 temper means the aluminum has undergone solution heat treatment followed by artificial aging, enhancing its mechanical properties to peak levels.
Key Features of 6061-T6 Marine-Grade Aluminum Profiles
1. Corrosion Resistance
6061 T6 alloy exhibits outstanding corrosion resistance, especially in both fresh and seawater environments-essential for long-term marine applications.
2. Excellent Workability
Its superior weldability, machinability, and formability make it easy to manufacture into complex gangway structures.
3. High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
With only one-third the density of steel but high tensile strength, 6061 T6 aluminum ensures that gangways remain lightweight while maintaining structural integrity-ideal for easy installation, portability, and reduced maintenance.
Product Information: Marine 6061-T6 Extruded Aluminum Profiles
| Alloy | 6061 |
| Temper | T6 |
Profile Types | Rectangular tube / H-shaped / U-shaped structures, etc. |
| Surface Treatment | Anodizing / Powder Coating / Polishing / Natural Oxidation |
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 290 MPa |
| Yield Strength | ≥ 240 MPa |
| Density | 2.70 g/cm³ (approx. 1/3 of steel) |
| Applications | Yachts, cargo ships, engineering vessels, floating docks, offshore platforms |
| Certifications | BV, DNV, CCS, ABS, and other marine classification societies |
| MOQ | 1-3 tons |
Why Use 6061 T6 Aluminum Profiles for Ship Gangways?
1. Strong and Lightweight: High strength ensures safety and stability, while low weight improves ease of use and handling.
2. Excellent Seawater Corrosion Resistance: Extended service life with reduced maintenance in marine environments.
3. Customizable and Easy to Fabricate: Ideal for modular and adjustable designs-telescopic, foldable, or detachable systems.
4. Surface Treatment Compatibility: Suitable for anodizing, electrophoretic coating, and other finishes to enhance corrosion resistance and visual appeal.
Typical Application Scenarios
Gangways made from 6061 T6 aluminum profiles are widely used in:
Commercial vessels (bulk carriers, container ships, tankers, etc.)
Private boats such as yachts, sailboats, and fishing vessels
Port boarding platforms and walkways
Offshore floating docks and dry docks
Offshore engineering platforms (e.g., wind farm service vessels, exploration rigs)
Why Choose Us?
We specialize in marine-grade aluminum profile solutions, offering:
1. Marine classification-certified (BV, DNV, CCS, etc.) 6061 T6 aluminum profiles
2. In-house dies and tooling for custom dimensions and mass production
3. Complete surface treatment and welding fabrication services
4. One-stop service: technical support + fast delivery + after-sales assistance
Original Source: https://www.marinealum.com/a/marine-grade-6061-t6-aluminum-profiles-for-aluminum-ship-boarding-ladders.html
Tag: 6061 marine aluminum 6061-T6 marine aluminum 6061-T6 aluminum profile 6061-T6 marine-grade aluminum profile marine 6061-T6 extruded aluminum extruded aluminum profile marine aluminum extrusion marine aluminum alloy profile
