What type of aluminum are hard tops?

[8up]

Hello,<br /><br />Does anyone know what type of aluminum is used to fabricate boat hard top or t-tops? I just purchased over $200 worth of various sized 6061-t6 schedule 40 aluminum pipe. When I tried to bend it it cracked and broke. Maybe I should have checked out my material better. If I can't bend it I'll just have to change my design plan. Any help would be great.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[FlyBoyMark]

Re: What type of aluminum are hard tops?

I answered this in another section that you posted same ...<br />Usually the same thing you used but the stuff is anodized. It can be bent but you must have the proper dies with the proper radius for each size of pipe. I owned a welding and fabricating company for 20 years doing this kind of stuff here in south Florida.<br />Since your pipe is not anodized it will be at least a little easier to T.I.G. weld..You are welding it? Those cheap M.I.G. welders they sell WON'T do the job...you'll need over 200 amps of heat to start the crater for welding then it will taper off quickly to continue the bead...