Aluminum 7075/T6 is a high-strength, heat-treatable aluminum alloy commonly used in aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications. Heres a detailed description of this grade:
Aluminum 7075/T6 Grade Description
Alloy Name Aluminum 7075
Temper T6
Composition
- Aluminum (Al) Balance
- Zinc (Zn) 5.1% - 6.1%
- Copper (Cu) 1.2% - 1.6%
- Magnesium (Mg) 2.1% - 2.9%
- Chromium (Cr) 0.18% - 0.28%
- Other Elements Includes small amounts of silicon, manganese, and others.
Properties
- Tensile Strength Approximately 570 MPa (83,000 psi)
- Yield Strength Approximately 505 MPa (73,000 psi)
- Elongation at Break Around 11% in standard conditions
- Density Approximately 2.81 g/cm³ (0.102 lb/in³)
- Hardness Rockwell Hardness (HRC) around 41
Key Features
- High Strength Known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for high-stress applications.
- Heat Treatable The T6 temper involves solution heat treatment and aging to achieve maximum strength.
- Good Machinability Exhibits good machinability and can be easily shaped into various forms.
- Corrosion Resistance Moderate corrosion resistance; often requires protective coating for enhanced durability in harsh environments.
Applications
- Aerospace Used in aircraft structures, fuselage frames, and wing spars due to its strength and lightweight properties.
- Automotive Employed in high-performance vehicle parts, including chassis and engine components.
- Military and Defense Utilized in military equipment and structural components where strength is crucial.
- Sports Equipment Found in high-end bicycles, sporting equipment, and other performance-oriented applications.
Fabrication
- Welding Generally not recommended for welding due to reduced strength in welded areas; other joining methods are preferred.
- Machining Excellent machinability, making it suitable for complex parts and precise engineering applications.
- Forming Can be formed into various shapes and sizes, including plates, sheets, rods, and extrusions.
Finish and Treatment
- Surface Finish Often anodized or coated for improved corrosion resistance and appearance.
- Heat Treatment The T6 temper involves solution heat treatment followed by aging at 120-180C (250-355F) for several hours.
Standards
- Common Standards ASTM B209, AMS 4027, and others depending on the specific application and requirements.
This alloy is prized for its exceptional mechanical properties, particularly where high strength and durability are required, but it should be chosen based on the specific needs and environmental conditions of the application.