METHOD AND PROCESS OF NON-ISOTHERMAL AGING FOR ALUMINUM ALLOYS

摘要

An improved non-isothermal aging process for aluminum alloys is disclosed. The non-isothermal aging process enhances the aging process for 7000 series aluminum alloys. In particular embodiments, the process involves continuous heating increasing at a linear rate of about 25° F. for about 11 hours and maintains high strength and corrosion properties. In an exemplary embodiment, a 7085 aluminum alloy containing 6 to 10 wt. % zinc; 1.2 to 1.9 wt. % magnesium; 1.2 to 2.2 wt. % copper, with magnesium begin less than of equal to the weight % of copper plus 0.3%; and 0.05 to 0.4 wt. % zirconium, the balance aluminum, incidental elements and impurities is aged.