Aluminum alloys
What is the influence of alloys?
We, at Rieger Metallveredlung have specialized primarily in this metal and are experts in aluminum electroplating. This expertise is reflected in our portfolio. Here, all processes from chrome to nickel, copper, tin to anodizing can be deposited on workpieces made of different aluminum alloys.
Aluminum alloys exist in numerous forms and can be classified in many ways. They consist of the basic material aluminum and other added alloying elements.
Types of alloys
These are mainly:
- Magnesium (Mg)
- Silicon (Si)
- Manganese (Mn)
- Copper (Cu)
- Zinc (Zn)
The purpose of alloying with other elements is to achieve the desired physical and mechanical properties of aluminum products in various delivery forms. For example, aluminum only becomes producible or forgeable as a casting when the alloying elements are added.
However, not all aluminum alloys are the same - they differ depending on the alloying addition, and thus each alloying addition has its own specific main area of application.
Influence of the alloying element
Magnesium
Magnesium improves the strength properties and hardness. It reduces its sensitivity to seawater and alkali, thus increasing the corrosion resistance of the respective alloy. Applications include the transport sector, building and bridge construction and shipbuilding.
Silicon
Silicon has a positive effect on the corrosion resistance of aluminum alloys, lowers the melting point and thus ensures good mold filling properties for thin-walled castings and improves weldability. If Mg is also alloyed, the alloy can be heat treated.
Manganese
Manganese increases elongation, tensile strength, and corrosion resistance. This has a positive effect on resistance at high temperatures. Such alloys are used, among other things, in power plant construction, household goods, and automotive radiators.
Copper
Copper lowers the corrosion resistance of the alloy, greatly increases hardness and strength, and promotes toughness. In addition, the addition of copper produces heat-treatable aluminum alloys with a wide temperature range. Fields of application are space and aerospace.
Zinc
Zinc, as an alloying element, causes an increased risk of stress corrosion, but this has a positive effect on strength and hardness. In the presence of magnesium, the addition of zinc produces a heat-treatable aluminum alloy. Applications for aluminum alloys with 0.8 to 12% zinc are mold and fixture construction, aerospace and aircraft construction. They are also frequently used for sports equipment.
