Aluminium is one of the most common materials used in manufacturing goods. Its properties make it versatile for various products, including aircraft, buildings, and cars. Two of the most commonly used types of aluminium are 2017 and 7075. However, differentiating between the two can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the material. This blog post will closely examine the similarities and differences between Aluminium 2017 and 7075.
What is Aluminium 2017?
Aluminium 2017 is a type of aluminium alloy that has gained popularity in industries requiring high strength and heat resistance. The alloy is composed of copper, magnesium, and aluminium, making it a formidable material that can withstand harsh environments and extreme temperatures. Aluminium 2017 is known for its exceptional strength and durability, making it a reliable option for aircraft manufacturing, structural components, and automotive parts.
What is Aluminium 7075?
Aluminium 7075 is more than just a metallic element. It’s a high-strength alloy that has become increasingly popular in the aerospace industry due to its impressive strength-to-weight ratio. The alloy contains zinc, magnesium, and copper, making it one of the strongest aluminium alloys.
Difference Between Aluminium 2017 and 7075
Aluminium 2017 is an alloy that consists mainly of aluminium and copper. It has good machinability, weldability, and strength but lacks corrosion resistance. On the other hand, Aluminium 7075 is a zinc-based alloy with high levels of strength and durability and exceptional corrosion resistance. The two alloys have different properties, which makes them useful for different applications.
Composition
The composition of each type of aluminium is one of the main differences between them. Aluminium 2017 has a chemical composition of around 90% aluminium, 4.5-5.5% copper, and 0.3-1.2% magnesium. On the other hand, Aluminium 7075 has a percentage composition of around 90% aluminium, 5.6-6.1% zinc, 2.1-2.9% magnesium, and 1.2-2%. Copper also makes up a small portion of the composition of Aluminium 7075.
Strength
Aluminium 7075 is much stronger than Aluminium 2017, which is why it is used extensively in aircraft manufacturing. The strength of Aluminium 7075 comes from the higher percentage of zinc and magnesium, which makes it ideal for applications requiring high strength and low weight. On the other hand, Aluminium 2017 is less strong but has better machinability.
Formability
While Aluminium 7075 may be stronger, it is much less formable than Aluminium 2017. The higher percentage of zinc that makes Aluminium 7075 stronger makes it more brittle and challenging to work with. For this reason, Aluminium 2017 is often more commonly used in processes that require forming.
Application
Aluminium 7075 is often used in aerospace and defence applications, as well as in the automotive industry. It is used for aircraft fittings, gears and shafts, missile parts, and bike frames. Aluminium 2017, on the other hand, is commonly applied in the transportation industry, such as making truck decks and trailer components. It can also be used in various kinds of valves and heat exchangers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Aluminium 2017 and 7075 have unique characteristics that make them useful for various applications. While Aluminium 7075 may be stronger, it is also less formable than Aluminium 2017, which has better machinability. The choice between the two usually depends on the properties needed for the specific application. Whether you’re building an aeroplane or a trailer deck, understanding the differences between these types of aluminium will help you to make an informed decision when choosing the right material for your project.
