Considerations For Choosing The Right Aluminum Alloy Type

An aluminum alloy is a unique combination of different metal elements with enhanced strength and durability. Aluminum is traditionally lightweight and has excellent corrosion resistance. These alloys are formed by combining aluminum in its liquid/molten form with other elements, which later cools and solidifies, forming a homogeneous solid material. The other elements combined with aluminum to form these alloys may take up to 15 percent of the total mass.

Examples of these added elements include Zinc, Iron, Magnesium, Copper, and Silicon. More importantly, adding these elements to aluminum offers the alloy enhanced electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, workability, and strength, than pure metallic elements.

Choosing the suitable aluminum grade for your project is essential for the best results. Here are the key factors to consider before selecting an aluminum alloy.

1. Machinability Rating
The machinability rating of an aluminum alloy lets you know the compatibility status of such material with aluminum CNC machining processes. It would help to note that 6061-T6, 2011 aluminum, and 7075 aluminum are suitable alloys with high to moderate machinability ratings. Hence, you can use these materials to create complex parts with intricate requirements.

2. Material Costs and Availability
When picking a material for your project, it is essential to consider the costs of the aluminum alloy grade. Maintain an equilibrium between your budget and the cost of the material with the ideal properties for your project. It helps to establish an efficient foundation for your production process.

In addition, the prices of the chosen aluminum grade will decide the availability of the aluminum alloy. A scarce aluminum grade will slow down the manufacturing process. For example, 7075 aluminum offers excellent machinability but has extremely high costs. On the other hand, 6061 aluminum is much cheaper and has reduced hardness and tensile strength, making it easily machinable.

3. Heat Treatment
Heat treatment involves using extreme heat temperatures to treat aluminum alloys to enhance their strength and durability. Hence, you should find out which aluminum series is heat-treatable and which is not.

However, it would help to note that the 2xxx, 6xxx, and 7xxx aluminum alloy series are compatible with heat treatment. You can heat-treat parts made with these alloys to enhance the strength of the finished products.