Temperature dependent properties of heat treated aluminium alloys

Abstract

The mechanical properties of different aluminium alloys used in the manufacture of power train automotive parts were studied. The alloys were cast in wedge shape ingots that promote a one-dimensional solidification gradient. Tensile samples were machined from bars that were cast with different degrees of microstructural refining and were heat treated at times and temperatures that depended on their composition. The mechanical properties were measured from samples that had been held for 200 h within the temperature range of 25 to 300°C. It was found that the increase of Cu in alloys of the Si–Mg type alloys enhanced the mechanical properties above room temperature. The best properties were found in the Al–Cu alloy.