One parameter model for strength properties of hardenable aluminium alloys

Models for strength properties are proposed for commercially aluminium alloys. The alloy group investigated are the hardenable alloys from the 2000 (Al-Cu and Al-Cu-Mg), 6000 (Al-Mg-Si) and 7000 (Al-Zn-Mg) series. The same model for solid solution hardening that has successfully been applied to non-hardenable alloys has been used. For precipitation hardening, particle cutting and the Orowan mechanism have been considered. The same basic model is used for all strength properties. It is demonstrated that with one fitting parameter for each property, a representation with reasonable accuracy can be obtained that is applicable to a wide range of alloys. Such models are useful in materials optimisation and selection. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.