Aluminium–copper alloys (AlCu) are aluminium alloys that consist largely of aluminium (Al) and traces of copper (Cu) as the main alloying elements. Important grades also contain additives of magnesium, iron, nickel and silicon, often manganese is also included to increase strength. The main area of application is aircraft construction. The alloys have medium to high strength and can be age hardened. They are both wrought alloy. Also available as cast alloy. Their susceptibility to corrosion and their poor weldability are disadvantageous.
Fire-damaged Duralumin cross brace from the Zeppelin airship Hindenburg (DLZ129) salvaged from its crash site at Lakehurst Maxfield Field, NJ on May 6, 1937
Complete phase diagram
Corrosion of duralumin
Duralumin sample from the 1931 airship USS Akron (ZRS-4)
An aluminium alloy (UK/IUPAC) or aluminum alloy is an alloy in which aluminium (Al) is the predominant metal. The typical alloying elements are copper, magnesium, manganese, silicon, tin, nickel and zinc. There are two principal classifications, namely casting alloys and wrought alloys, both of which are further subdivided into the categories heat-treatable and non-heat-treatable. About 85% of aluminium is used for wrought products, for example rolled plate, foils and extrusions. Cast aluminium alloys yield cost-effective products due to the low melting point, although they generally have lower tensile strengths than wrought alloys. The most important cast aluminium alloy system is Al–Si, where the high levels of silicon (4–13%) contribute to give good casting characteristics. Aluminium alloys are widely used in engineering structures and components where light weight or corrosion resistance is required.
Welded aluminium alloy bicycle frame, made in the 1990s
Aluminium alloy bicycle wheel. 1960s Bootie Folding Cycle
Parts of the MiG–29 are made from Al–Sc alloy