Papers by Keyword: Zn:Mg Ratio

Abstract: Recent 7xxx aluminum alloys have been designed for the finite use of thick semiproduct with contolled amount of constituent phases which mostly evolve during ingot preheat. In this study, the effects of constitutional change and preheat conditions of 7175 and 7050 type alloys on the evolution of constituent phases [M-, T-, S-phase and dispersoid] are presented. The constiuents evolve depending on the constitutional effect, primarily the change of Zn:Mg ratio, preheat condition comprising temperature and cooling rate following preheat. T- and M-phase are reprecipitated during cooling after preheat, depending on the alloy constitutions. S-phase is evolved depending on the constitution and preheat temperature, rather than preheat cooling rate. Prominent precipitation temperature interval of constituents are discussed in view of quaternary phase evolutions. In addition, evolutions of dispersoids together with M-phase are discussed. Specific alloy designs and preheat conditions could provide controlled microstructures for the thick 7xxx semiproducts.

Abstract: A systematic study of the precipitation processes in high strength Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys has been conducted. A series of experimental alloys was prepared with varying Zn:Mg ratio, but equivalent total solute content, to be representative of those used in applications which demand a combination of strength, fracture toughness and resistance to environmentally sensitive cracking mechanisms. Artificial ageing curves were constructed for each alloy, based upon 7xxx series duplex treatments widely used in industry. Ageing kinetics were investigated beyond peak strength into the overaged condition, since this is known to promote the most favourable balance of properties. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and transmission election microscopy (TEM) observations were made on the alloys throughout the ageing process to fully understand the precipitation events occuring. For a particular overageing treatment, higher Zn:Mg ratio alloys were consistently found to be at a more advanced stage of precipitation while higher strengths were retained at low Zn:Mg ratios. Grain boundary characteristics, such as particle size and precipitate free zone width, were also influenced by Zn:Mg ratio at a given strength level. This paper provides new understanding of precipitation kinetics and the control of important microstructural features which influence the balance of properties in 7xxx series aluminium alloys.

Abstract: An effort has been made to present optimum alloy designs of commercial 7175 and 7050 type alloys to be used in thick forgings with proper microstructures and properties. The effects of changing alloy constitutions, primarily [Zn+Mg+Cu] and Zn:Mg ratio, on the evolutions of the coarse equilibrium phases and age hardening response are investigated. As a result, equilibrium phases (M,T,S) are evolved depending on alloy constitutions and cooling rate following solutionizing. The formation of the T- and S-phases is effectively controlled in the novel alloys (dilute and with high Zn:Mg ratio). In the slow quench, the redesign promotes homogeneous precipitation of η-phases, leading to higher mechanical properties than conventional alloys. The novel alloys provide microstructural homogeneity and extended heating range, ensuring 7xxx thick forging applications.