We have been asked on several occasions about the strength of our 1/4″ 6061-T6 aluminum skid plates compared to their carbon steel counterparts.  Here is a brief explanation of the material properties of the two skid plates that may clear-up some confusion.

It’s difficult to compare the 1/4″ carbon steel skid to the 1/4″ 6061-T6 skid by simply stating which is stronger. The 6061-T6 has a slightly higher yield strength (40,000 psi) than the 1/4″ carbon steel skid (36,000 psi). That simply means that it will take more load before it takes a permanent bend. The carbon steel plate we use has a higher ultimate tensile strength (58,000 psi minimum) than the 6061-T6 (45,000 psi). That simply means that it can take more load before failure. The steel plate has an advantage in that it has a larger margin between the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength. This makes it more forgiving and “ultimately” stronger.