Aluminum-Copper-Lithium Alloy 2050 Developed for Medium to Thick Plate

This article discusses Al-Cu-Li 2050 alloy developed, qualified, and produced by Alcan Aerospace as plates. AA2050 alloy offers a low density high corrosion resistant alternative to incumbent medium to thick plate alloys like 7050-T7451, and to thin plate alloys like 2024 or higher damage tolerant versions. The fundamentals behind the choice of the Al-Cu-Li chemistry are highlighted, as well as the property balance generated in a wide range of thickness from 12 to 127 mm (0.5 to 5 in.). Manufacturing behavior of the alloy when machining or friction stir welding is also discussed in detail. Finally, it is shown that the appropriate recycling investments and logistics permit the use of 2050 alloy at an acceptable level of extra cost per kilo saved, when weight benefits are taken into account.