The type of metal used is extremely important when building aeroplanes, helicopters, and other industrial machinery. One of the most popular metals used in aircraft manufacturing is aluminium. However, with so many different types of aluminium, it cannot be easy to know which type is the best for your project. Two commonly used types of aluminium are 2014 and 7075. In this blog post, we will examine the differences between these two types of aluminium and when it is best to use one over the other.
What is 2014 Aluminium?
2014 Aluminium is an alloy commonly used in aerospace and automotive industries due to its high strength and excellent machinability. It is a relatively new alloy, developed in the late 20th century, made of copper, magnesium, manganese, and silicon. With its unique properties, 2014 Aluminium offers greater strength and durability than many other aluminium alloys, making it a popular choice for high-performance applications.
What is 7075 Aluminium?
7075 Aluminium is a high-strength alloy widely used in aerospace and defence applications due to its excellent properties. This specific grade of aluminium is known for its high tensile strength and good fatigue resistance. It is ideal for aircraft structures, missile components, and other critical applications where strength and durability are paramount.
Difference Between 2014 Aluminium and 7075
The main difference between 2014 aluminium and 7075 alloy is strength. 7075 alloy is a much stronger material than 2014 aluminium due to its higher zinc composition, which gives it greater strength and hardness. 7075 also has better fatigue resistance, making it ideal for high-stress applications such as aerospace components. Meanwhile, the lower cost of 2014 makes it attractive for many general-purpose applications while offering good corrosion resistance.
Chemical Composition
One of the main differences between 2014 and 7075 aluminium is their chemical composition. 2014 aluminium is an aluminium-copper alloy, while 7075 is an aluminium-zinc-magnesium-copper-chromium alloy. The copper content in 2014 was higher than that of 7075, which resulted in a slightly lower strength. On the other hand, the zinc and magnesium levels in 7075 make it stronger and harder than in 2014. 7075 is typically the better choice for projects requiring high strength and durability.
Machinability
Another key difference between these two types of aluminium is their machinability. 2014 aluminium is easier to machine than 7075 due to its lower copper content and higher silicon content. However, 7075 can still be machined, although it will require additional effort and may result in a slightly rougher finish. For projects that require intricate machining or a smoother finish, 2014 is typically the better choice.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion resistance is another important factor when choosing between 2014 and 7075 aluminium. While both types of aluminium are relatively corrosion-resistant compared to other metals, 7075 has better corrosion resistance due to its higher zinc and magnesium content. If your project is exposed to harsh weather conditions or corrosive substances, it may be better to choose 7075.
Cost
Finally, cost is always a consideration when choosing materials for any project. 2014 aluminium is generally cheaper than 7075 due to its lower content of high-value metals. However, the exact cost will depend on various factors, such as the project size, the quantity of materials needed, and the supplier. If cost is a major consideration, 2014 may be the better option.
Conclusion
Deciding between 2014 and 7075 aluminium ultimately comes down to the specific requirements of your project. If you need a high-strength and durable material that can withstand harsh conditions, 7075 may be the better choice. If you need a material that is easier to machine and smoother finish, 2014 may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision depends on your project’s specific needs and constraints.