Aluminium is a versatile metal widely used in various sectors, from automotive to construction. The metal industry has been evolving rapidly, and over the past decade, there have been developments in the production of different types of aluminium. This blog post discusses the difference between Aluminium 2007 and 2017 and what improvements have been made over the years.
Difference Between Aluminium 2007 and 2017
Composition
While both Aluminium 2007 and 2017 are aluminium alloys, they have different chemical compositions. Aluminium 2007 contains copper, magnesium, and zinc, while Aluminium 2017 has added copper, iron, and silicon—the change in the chemical composition results in improved strength and corrosion resistance in Aluminium 2017.
Yield Strength
One of the significant differences between these two aluminium alloys is their yield strength. The yield strength of aluminium in 2007 is around 65 MPa, while that of 2017 is 328 MPa, which is five times higher. This significant difference in strength makes Aluminium 2017 more useful in applications that require higher load-bearing capabilities.
Corrosion Resistance
Aluminium alloys are inherently corrosion resistant, but with the addition of copper and silicon, Aluminium 2017 has improved resistance against dents and scratches, making it ideal for use in corrosive environments. By comparison, Aluminium 2007 has relatively less corrosion resistance, making it more prone to oxidization.
Machinability
Aluminium 2017 has improved machinability in comparison to Aluminium 2007. It offers better chip formation, higher cutting speeds, and longer tool life. These improvements in machinability are attributed to its chemical composition, which enhances cutting performance.
Applications
The vast difference in the properties of Aluminium 2007 and Aluminium 2017 ensures that they have a specific use case. Aluminium 2007 is generally used to produce electronic devices, cables, and wires, while Aluminium 2017 finds use in applications requiring high strength, such as marine, aerospace, and automotive industries. The improved corrosion resistance of Aluminium 2017 has led to its increased use in marine applications.
Conclusion:
Aluminium 2017 is a more advanced version of Aluminium 2007, with better strength, corrosion resistance, and machinability. The addition of copper, iron, and silicon has significantly improved the properties of the metal, making it more suitable for heavier applications such as aerospace, marine, and automotive. Regardless of which type of aluminium you use in your project, it is essential to consider the unique properties of each alloy before making a decision. With the right knowledge, you can choose the most suitable material for your application, thus ensuring optimal performance.
