The influence of isochronal aging on the mechanical and thermophysical properties of the EN AW-6060 aluminum alloy

Abstract

The scope of this paper is the investigation of the effect of precipitation on an EN AW-6060 aluminum alloy by measuring mechanical, physical, and thermal properties. According to the exothermic peaks that appeared on the DSC thermogram and thermal diffusivity curve, parameters for isochronal aging treatment were defined. Thermal, mechanical, physical, and structural properties were investigated during the isochronal aging. The maximal enhancement of mechanical properties was achieved after aging at 230 °C for 30 min, whereas the most favorable thermal properties were obtained after aging at the same temperature for 60 min. During the aging, the precipitation from the solid solution caused a gradual increase in electrical conductivity. SEM/EDS microstructural investigations confirmed the existence of precipitated phases and provided the insight into their distribution within the microstructure. Keywords: aluminum alloys, EN AW-6060, aging, heat treatment, thermal properties