Thinking about working with high-strength aluminum? If you’re sourcing materials for aerospace, automotive, or precision engineering projects, you’re likely wondering: how much does 7075 aluminum really cost?
Knowing the price of 7075 aluminum is crucial for budgeting and ensuring your project stays on track. Prices can vary widely, with several factors influencing the final cost.
In this article, we’ll break down what affects AL 7075 pricing, how to find current rates, and tips for getting the best value.
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Understanding 7075 Aluminum Pricing
When you’re searching for “how [is] AL 7075 price” or looking to buy 7075 aluminum, the question encompasses more than just a simple dollar figure. Let’s explore what affects the price of 7075 aluminum, what to expect from the buying process, and how to make the best decision for your needs.
What is 7075 Aluminum, and Why Does Its Price Vary?
7075 aluminum is considered a high-strength, premier-grade alloy. It’s especially popular for industries demanding exceptional durability, like aerospace, automotive racing, defense, and high-stress structural parts. This material isn’t your typical “everyday aluminum” — and that directly affects price.
Several factors influence its cost:
- Raw material cost: The base price of aluminum changes with global commodities markets.
- Alloying process: 7075 gets its properties by blending other metals such as zinc, magnesium, and copper, making production more involved.
- Form and fabrication: Plate, sheet, bar, and extrusion shapes have differing prices depending on how they’re made.
- Quality certification: Aerospace or military-grade certifications add costs.
- Supplier, size, and quantity: Where you buy and how much you buy can significantly impact the price.
- Market factors: Availability, demand, and lead times affect how much you’ll pay.
Let’s break these components down in more detail.
Key Factors that Affect 7075 Aluminum Pricing
1. Raw Material and Global Market Trends
Like other metals, aluminum prices are set by international commodities markets. The base price is often called the “LME price” (from the London Metal Exchange). This fluctuates daily.
- 7075 pricing closely follows these trends
- However, because 7075 contains costly alloying elements, its price usually sits significantly higher than commodity-grade aluminum (like 6061 or 5052).
2. Alloying, Processing, and Certification
7075 requires precise blending and heat treatment to achieve its strength and toughness. To reach aerospace or military certification, manufacturers must meet strict quality controls. This leads to:
- Higher production costs.
- Additional testing and paperwork.
- More limited supply (not all mills can produce certified 7075).
3. Form: Plate, Sheet, Bar, or Extrusion
You’ll notice price differences depending on what form you need:
- Thick plate is most expensive per pound or kilogram.
- Sheet is usually less expensive but limited in thickness.
- Flat bar, round, or hex bar – prices depend on size and finish.
- Extrusions (custom or standard shapes) – specialty shapes command higher prices.
Larger or unusual sizes, or items needing tight tolerances, increase the cost.
4. Quantity and Minimum Order
7075 is a specialty alloy, so:
- Small orders or cut pieces may have a higher price per pound due to processing and handling.
- Bulk or full-plate purchases can qualify for volume discounts.
5. Source and Supplier Factors
The reputation and capabilities of your supplier matter. Reputable metal service centers or online suppliers may offer:
- Guaranteed certification (important for critical applications)
- Fast custom cutting or finishing (which can add cost)
- Reliable stock and shipping options
Some suppliers cater to industries like aerospace and charge a premium for higher-grade materials and documentation.
6. Other Price Drivers: Shipping and Handling
7075 is heavy and often bought in bulky quantities. Consider:
- Shipping distance: Domestic shipping can be reasonably priced, but international freight costs fluctuate.
- Packing, crating, and insurance: For high-value or sensitive material, additional handling fees may apply.
- Lead time: If you need expedited service or cutting, you may pay more.
Typical Price Ranges for 7075 Aluminum
Due to all these factors, actual market prices vary. As of 2024, these are rough guidelines for 7075-T6 (a common heat treatment) in the U.S.:
- Sheet or plate (<1” thick): $5 to $10 per pound by the sheet
- Thicker plate: $8 to $15 per pound, sometimes higher for special sizes or certifications
- Bar or extrusion: $7 to $20 per pound depending on profile and quantity
- Cut pieces or small orders: Usually at the higher end of the range
Important: These are reference numbers. Always request a current quote from your supplier; prices can fluctuate quickly, especially with changes to energy or raw material costs.
Benefits of 7075 and Why It’s Worth the Price
If you’re considering 7075, it’s likely for its performance advantages:
- Outstanding strength-to-weight ratio – rivals some steels but much lighter
- Excellent fatigue resistance
- Good machinability for complex parts
- Proven aerospace and racing track record
Yes, it costs more, but for critical applications, the durability and longevity can offset the initial investment.
Practical Tips for Buying 7075 Aluminum
Here’s how to make sure you get the right material at the right price:
1. Identify Your Application Requirements
- Know if you need aerospace/military certification
- Determine the form, dimensions, and quantity you need
- Ask about acceptable substitutes if cost is an issue (e.g., can 6061 do the job?)
2. Source Quotes from Multiple Suppliers
- Provide clear material specs (alloy, temper, thickness/shape, certification)
- Ask about lead time and delivery options
- Request cut-to-size options if you don’t need full lengths or sheets (can reduce scrap and shipping costs)
3. Consider Total Cost, Not Just Price per Pound
- Factor in shipping, cutting, and certification charges
- Watch for minimum order fees—single small pieces may be much more expensive per pound
4. Ask About Current Market Trends
- Prices can move rapidly, so check if prices are trending up or down
- Ask if supplier can lock in your price for a period
5. Double-check Documentation and Quality
- For critical uses, request mill test reports or certificates of conformance
- Confirm material matches the required standard (7075-T6, 7075-T651, etc.)
Cost-Saving Strategies and Shipping Tips
- Order only what you need: Avoid excess by buying custom-cut pieces.
- Bundle orders: Plan ahead and purchase for multiple projects at once to save on shipping/handling.
- Check for remnant sales: Many suppliers offer discounted off-cuts or remnants of 7075.
- Choose regional suppliers: Buying from a nearby supplier can lower freight costs and speed up delivery.
When shipping internationally:
- Group items for bulky orders: This can reduce per-unit shipping costs.
- Clarify import taxes/duties: Some countries have higher tariffs on aluminum imports.
- Consider insurance: For valuable shipments, insure against loss or damage in transit.
Conclusion
7075 aluminum stands apart for its remarkable balance of strength, lightweight, and machinability—making it indispensable for demanding applications. Its price reflects these qualities and the intricate processes required to produce it.
When seeking the best deal, factor in not just the price per pound or kilogram, but also additional costs such as cutting, certification, and shipping. Working with reputable suppliers and understanding your exact application needs can further optimize your investment. Always weigh the cost against the performance requirements of your project—the right material can pay off in durability, safety, and value over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does 7075 aluminum price compare to 6061?
7075 aluminum is significantly more expensive than 6061. On average, 7075 costs 2-3 times as much per pound, owing to its superior strength and more demanding production and certification standards.
Is there a minimum order size for 7075 aluminum?
Often, yes. Many suppliers set minimum order quantities, especially for cut pieces or special shapes. Bulk purchases or full-bar/sheet orders usually offer better per-pound pricing.
How can I reduce my shipping costs for 7075 aluminum?
Choose a nearby supplier, order standard sizes to reduce custom handling, and bundle multiple items together. For large or international orders, request a quote for consolidated freight shipping to minimize overall costs.
Does 7075 aluminum always come with certification?
Not always. Certification (like for aerospace or military use) must be requested and often costs extra. Make sure to specify certification requirements when ordering if your application calls for it.
Does the price of 7075 aluminum change often?
Yes, the price can fluctuate regularly due to shifts in global aluminum prices, supply and demand, and energy costs. It’s best to confirm current prices with your supplier and, if possible, lock in rates for larger orders.