Technical Properties of Aluminium Alloys

The applications of aluminium and its alloys are depending on the properties. In most cases, mechanical properties are an important criterion for assessing the suitability of an A1 alloy for a specific application. Other properties, such as electrical conductivity or corrosion resistance, may also be included in the assessment process. 

Hardness. The Brinell hardness number HB ranges from 15 for unalloyed A1 in the soft tender to about 140 for an artificially aged Al—Zn—Mg—1.5 wt%Cu alloy. 

Strength at Elevated Temperatures. An exanple of the temperature and time dependence of the different mechanical properties is given in Fig. 3.1-37. With regard to the resistance to softening the materials can be classified as follows, depending on their tenper  

High Temperature Mechanical Properties in Short-Term Tests. In materials that are not thermally stable, there will be an effect due to irreversible changes in properties. Its magnitude depends on the temperature and duration of exposure. Figs. 3.1-40 and 3.1-41. 

Creep Behavior. Creep of A1 alloys starts to play an important role at temperatures above 100 to 150 °C (Figs. 3.1-42 and 3.1-43). Material, amount of cold work 

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