Introduction
2024 is a typical hard aluminum alloy in the Al–Cu–Mg system with a well-balanced composition and good overall performance. It is produced by many countries and is among the more commonly used hard aluminum alloys.
Key features: high strength and some heat resistance; suitable for working parts below 150°C. Above 125°C, 2024 alloy’s strength is higher than that of 7075.
It has good formability in hot, annealed and newly quenched conditions. Heat-treatment strengthening is significant, but the heat-treatment process requires strict control. Corrosion resistance is poorer; however, protection can be obtained by cladding with pure aluminum. It is prone to cracking, but with special processes it can also be riveted.
Applications
2024 is mainly used for making various high-load parts and components (excluding stamped and forged parts), such as the framework parts, skin, bulkheads, wing ribs, wing beams, rivets, and other parts operating below 150°C on aircraft.
