Aluminium Alloys

• Pure aluminium has

  • Low density (rrelative Al=2.7, Fe=7.9)
  • Readily available (Al is 3rd most abundant element in Earth's crust)
  • Highly formable (FCC crystal structure)
  • Low strength and stiffness (EAl=70GPa, EFe=211GPa)
  • Low melting point (Tm=660oC)

• Alloy with other elements to improve strength and stiffness - results in alloys with properties well matched to aerospace requirements

Notes: