Optimisation of heat treatment of Al-Cu-(Mg-Ag) cast alloys

The optimisation of heat treatment parameters for Al-Cu-(Mg-Ag) cast alloys (2xxx) having different microstructural scales was investigated. Thermo-Calc software was used to design optimal alloy compositions. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy and wavelength-dispersive spectroscopy technique were employed to determine proper solution heat treatment temperature and homogenisation time as well as incidence of incipient melting. Proper artificial ageing temperature for each alloy was identified using DSC analysis and hardness measurement. Microstructural scale had a pronounced influence on time and temperature required for complete dissolution of Al2Cu and homogenisation of Cu solute atoms in the alpha-Al matrix. Refined microstructure required only one-step solution treatment and relatively short solution treatment of 10 h to achieve dissolution and homogenisation, while coarser microstructures desired longer time. Addition of Mg to Al-Cu alloys promoted the formation of phases having a rather low melting temperature which demands multi-step solution treatment. Presence of Ag decreases the melting temperature of intermetallics (beside Al2Cu) and improvement in age-hardening response. Peak-aged temperature is primarily affected by the chemical composition rather than the microstructural scale.