2024 Aluminum:
2024 aluminum is a widely used alloy in the aerospace industry, known for its exceptional strength and remarkable fatigue resistance. However, it does come with certain considerations. Despite its strengths, it exhibits only moderate corrosion resistance, which often necessitates the application of a protective coating in demanding environments. Additionally, welding 2024 aluminum can be challenging, mainly due to its elevated copper content. To counter this, the alloy's strength can be significantly enhanced through heat treatment.
Approximate yield strength: 310 MPa (45,000 psi)
Composition: Aluminum (Al) - 94.7-96.7%, Copper (Cu) - 3.8-5%, Magnesium (Mg) - 0.5-1.0%, Manganese (Mn) - 0.15-0.40%.
5052 Aluminum:
5052 aluminum is often the preferred choice for various applications, including marine environments, general fabrication, and construction, primarily due to its outstanding corrosion resistance. Unlike the aerospace sector, which demands materials with high-stress capabilities, 5052 aluminum is typically selected for tasks where extreme strength is not a requirement. Notably, 5052 aluminum cannot be heat treated, but it is highly regarded for its excellent formability and weldability.
Approximate yield strength: 270 MPa (39,000 psi)
Composition: Aluminum (Al) - 92.2-95.8%, Magnesium (Mg) - 2.2-2.8%.
6061 Aluminum:
6061 aluminum is a premium-grade alloy commonly selected for structural components in aerospace, transportation, and general fabrication. Its reputation is built on its commendable mechanical properties, outstanding weldability, and corrosion resistance. This alloy stands out for its lightweight nature and ease of machining. Furthermore, it can be heat-treated and offers excellent formability.
Approximate yield strength: 276 MPa (40,000 psi)
Composition: Aluminum (Al) - 97.1-98.6%, Magnesium (Mg) - 0.8-1.2%, Silicon (Si) - 0.4-0.8%.
7075 Aluminum:
7075 aluminum predominantly finds use in the aerospace sector and applications demanding exceptional strength. It ranks among the strongest aluminum alloys available, exhibiting commendable fatigue resistance. However, it boasts only moderate corrosion resistance, often requiring the application of protective coatings. Welding is not the typical choice due to its susceptibility to cracking. 7075 aluminum can be heat-treated to achieve increased strength.
Approximate yield strength: 572 MPa (83,000 psi)
Composition: Aluminum (Al) - 91.1-93.0%, Copper (Cu) - 1.2-2.0%, Magnesium (Mg) - 1.2-2.0%, Manganese (Mn) - 0.18-0.35%, Zinc (Zn) - 5.1-6.1%.