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Send EmailAluminum-Iron Master Alloy, AlFe, 7429-90-5, 7439-89-6
Product Name: AlFe (Aluminum-Iron Master Alloy)
Alloy System: Al-Fe binary alloy system
Primary Use: Strength-enhancing additive for aluminum alloys, hardness improvement, microstructure control in special casting applications
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Aluminum-Iron Master Alloy (AlFe) |
| Alloy System | Al-Fe binary alloy |
| Alloy Type | Master alloy, strength-enhancing additive alloy |
| Main Components | Aluminum (Al), Iron (Fe) |
| Form | Rod, ingot, or granule |
| Color | Silver-gray |
| CAS Numbers | Aluminum (Al): 7429-90-5, Iron (Fe): 7439-89-6 |
| Primary Application | Mechanical strength enhancing additive, hardness improvement, microstructure control |
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION AND EXPLANATION:
Aluminum-Iron (AlFe) master alloy is a pre-alloy (master alloy) containing controlled amounts of iron within an aluminum matrix. Master alloys are concentrated alloys used to add specific elements to aluminum alloys in a controlled and homogeneous manner.
AlFe master alloy is used to add the element iron to aluminum-based alloys. Iron is added to aluminum alloys to enhance mechanical strength, improve hardness, and provide microstructure control in special casting applications. Iron forms intermetallic phases with aluminum (such as Al₃Fe, Al₆Fe) that contribute to dispersion strengthening and improve wear resistance.
In aluminum castings, iron is often added to reduce hot tearing tendency and improve high-temperature strength. It also helps control grain structure and refine the cast microstructure. AlFe master alloys are essential for the production of aluminum alloys used in automotive and machinery components where strength, hardness, and wear resistance are critical.
This master alloy is supplied in rod, ingot, or granule form and can be produced with iron contents ranging from 1% to 30% according to customer requirements. AlFe master alloy provides a reliable and homogeneous source for adding iron to the final alloy in aluminum foundries and alloy manufacturing facilities.
| Element | CAS No | Content (wt%) | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum (Al) | 7429-90-5 | Balance (~70.0 – 99.0) | Matrix main element |
| Iron (Fe) | 7439-89-6 | 1.0 – 30.0 | Active additive element; strength enhancer, hardness improver |
| Other Impurities | - | ≤ 0.3 | Silicon, titanium, etc. |
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION EXPLANATION:
The chemical composition of AlFe master alloy is designed to contain controlled amounts of iron ranging from 1% to 30% within an aluminum matrix. The iron content can be customized according to customer requirements and final application needs. As iron percentage increases, the alloy's mechanical strength and hardness increase, but a decrease in ductility may be observed. Impurity levels are strictly controlled to ensure alloy quality. CAS numbers for Aluminum (7429-90-5) and Iron (7439-89-6) are provided for chemical identification and regulatory compliance.
| Property | Value / Range | Unit | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form | Rod, ingot, or granule | - | According to customer request |
| Color | Silver-gray | - | Characteristic metallic appearance |
| Density | 2.7 – 7.9 | g/cm³ | Depends on iron content |
| Melting Point | 600 – 650 | °C | Depends on Al-Fe alloy composition |
| Melting Point (Fe) | ~1538 | °C | Pure iron reference |
| Electrical Conductivity | Low | %IACS | Iron significantly reduces conductivity |
| Thermal Conductivity | Medium | W/m·K | |
| Magnetic Properties | Non-magnetic | - | Al-Fe alloys are generally non-magnetic |
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:
AlFe master alloy is supplied in rod, ingot, or granule form. It has a silver-gray color with a characteristic metallic appearance. Density varies significantly depending on iron content; while pure aluminum has a density of ~2.70 g/cm³, pure iron has a density of ~7.87 g/cm³. As iron content increases, the alloy's density increases from 2.7 to 7.9 g/cm³.
The melting point ranges from 600-650°C depending on the exact alloy composition. Iron addition lowers the melting point of aluminum (~660°C) in certain compositions. Electrical conductivity decreases significantly with iron addition; therefore, AlFe master alloys are not used in applications requiring high conductivity. Thermal conductivity is at a medium level. Al-Fe alloys are generally non-magnetic.
| Property | Evaluation | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Strength Increase | High | Iron significantly increases mechanical strength of aluminum alloys |
| Hardness Increase | High | Improves alloy hardness and wear resistance |
| Microstructure Control | Good | Controls grain structure and intermetallic phase formation |
| Hot Tearing Reduction | Good | Reduces hot tearing tendency in castings |
| Wear Resistance | Improved | Increases abrasion and wear resistance |
| High Temperature Strength | Improved | Enhances strength at elevated temperatures |
| Castability | Good | Improves fluidity and castability |
| Homogeneous Distribution | Good | Master alloy ensures homogeneous addition |
FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:
The most important functional property of AlFe master alloy is its ability to significantly increase the mechanical strength and hardness of aluminum alloys. Iron forms intermetallic phases (such as Al₃Fe, Al₆Fe) with aluminum that contribute to dispersion strengthening, improving hardness and wear resistance.
Iron is particularly effective in cast aluminum alloys where it helps reduce hot tearing tendency during solidification. The fine intermetallic particles act as heterogeneous nucleation sites, refining the grain structure and improving the overall mechanical properties. In Al-Si casting alloys, iron improves high-temperature strength and reduces coefficient of thermal expansion.
AlFe master alloy provides precise alloy control; iron content can be precisely adjusted to optimize the final alloy's mechanical properties, hardness, and microstructure.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Mechanical Strength Enhancer | Automotive structural parts, machinery components, high-strength aluminum castings |
| Hardness and Wear Resistance | Engine blocks, cylinder heads, brake components, wear-resistant parts |
| Microstructure Control | Aluminum castings requiring grain refinement and intermetallic phase control |
| Heat-Resistant Alloys | Alloys requiring high-temperature strength and stability |
| Al-Si Casting Alloys | Modifies and controls iron-containing intermetallic phases in Al-Si alloys |
| Automotive Industry | Engine blocks, cylinder heads, transmission housings, chassis components |
| Machinery Components | Gears, pumps, hydraulic components, wear parts |
| Aerospace Industry | Specific structural components requiring high strength and stability |
APPLICATION AREAS EXPLANATION:
Mechanical Strength Enhancer: AlFe master alloy is used in automotive structural parts, machinery components, and high-strength aluminum castings. Iron significantly increases the tensile strength and hardness of the alloy through dispersion strengthening.
Hardness and Wear Resistance: Iron improves hardness and wear resistance, making AlFe alloys suitable for engine blocks, cylinder heads, brake components, and other wear-resistant parts.
Microstructure Control: In aluminum castings, iron helps control grain structure and intermetallic phase formation, improving overall mechanical properties and reducing hot tearing tendency.
Al-Si Casting Alloys: In Al-Si casting alloys, iron modifies and controls the morphology of iron-containing intermetallic phases, optimizing mechanical properties.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Store in dry and cool environment |
| Storage Temperature | Ambient (room temperature) |
| Protection | Protect from moisture; keep away from direct sunlight |
| Oxidation Protection | Protection against oxidation recommended due to iron content |
| Shelf Life | Unlimited (under proper storage) |
| Packaging | Rods/ingots: Wooden pallets or metal crates; Granules: Closed containers |
| Transport | According to standard industrial transport rules; protect from moisture |
STORAGE AND TRANSPORT EXPLANATION:
AlFe master alloy should be stored in a dry and cool environment, protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Due to iron content, appropriate protection measures should be taken to prevent surface oxidation during long-term storage. Under proper storage conditions, shelf life is unlimited. Packaging varies depending on product form: rod and ingot forms are shipped on wooden pallets or in metal crates, while granule form is shipped in closed containers (drums or bags). During transport, care should be taken to prevent the product from contacting moisture and to protect it from mechanical damage.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| GHS Classification | Not hazardous under normal use |
| Health Risks | Dust form may cause respiratory tract irritation |
| Melting Risks | Iron vapors are not typically a concern; however, ensure adequate ventilation |
| PPE Requirements | Gloves, safety goggles, dust mask |
| Dust Explosion Risk | Aluminum dust can be explosive |
| Storage | Dry and cool environment |
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:
Inhalation: Avoid inhalation of dust. Ensure adequate ventilation during melting operations.
Skin Contact: Not hazardous under normal use; however, dust form may cause skin irritation.
Eye Contact: In case of dust contact, rinse with plenty of water.
Melting: Adequate ventilation should be provided during melting operations. Use local exhaust ventilation or fume hood.
PPE Recommendations: Wear protective gloves (heat-resistant), safety goggles (for dust and splashes), and dust mask or respiratory protection if necessary.
Dust Explosion: Aluminum dust can be explosive; avoid dust formation during processing.
The typical mechanical properties of Al-Fe alloys obtained by adding AlFe master alloy to the final alloy are given below. These values vary significantly depending on iron content, other alloy components, and processing conditions.
| Property | Value Range | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 100 – 350+ MPa | Depends on iron content and alloy composition |
| Yield Strength | 60 – 200+ MPa | |
| Elongation (%) | 2 – 12 | Ductility decreases with increasing iron content |
| Hardness (HB) | 35 – 100+ | |
| Wear Resistance | Improved | Significantly improved with iron addition |
| High Temperature Strength | Improved | Better strength retention at elevated temperatures |
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:
When AlFe master alloy is added to the final alloy, iron content significantly affects mechanical properties. Iron increases tensile strength and hardness through the formation of fine intermetallic particles (Al₃Fe, Al₆Fe) that provide dispersion strengthening. However, ductility (elongation) decreases as iron content increases.
In Al-Si casting alloys, iron modifies the morphology of iron-containing intermetallic phases, which can improve mechanical properties when properly controlled. The presence of iron also improves high-temperature strength and wear resistance. Mechanical properties vary significantly depending on the exact alloy composition, processing conditions, and heat treatment.
SUMMARY:
Aluminum-Iron (AlFe) master alloy is a pre-alloy containing controlled amounts of iron (1-30%) within an aluminum matrix. It is supplied in rod, ingot, or granule form. Density ranges from 2.7-7.9 g/cm³ depending on iron content, and melting point ranges from 600-650°C.
AlFe master alloy is used to add iron to aluminum alloys. Iron increases mechanical strength, improves hardness and wear resistance, and provides microstructure control in special casting applications. It is particularly useful in automotive and machinery components where strength, hardness, and wear resistance are critical.
Store in dry and cool environment, protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Not hazardous under normal use; however, avoid inhalation of dust and ensure adequate ventilation during melting operations. Personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles, dust mask) is recommended.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Aluminum-Iron Master Alloy (AlFe) |
| Alloy Type | Master alloy, strength-enhancing additive alloy |
| Form | Rod, ingot, granule |
| Color | Silver-gray |
| Density | 2.7 – 7.9 g/cm³ (depending on Fe content) |
| Melting Point | 600 – 650°C |
| Fe Content | 1 – 30% (customizable) |
| CAS Numbers | Al: 7429-90-5, Fe: 7439-89-6 |
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Automotive | Engine blocks, cylinder heads, transmission housings, chassis components |
| Machinery | Gears, pumps, hydraulic components, wear parts |
| Aerospace | Specific structural components requiring high strength |
| Casting | Aluminum castings requiring grain refinement and microstructure control |
| Al-Si Alloys | Modification of iron-containing intermetallic phases |
NOT HAZARDOUS: Not hazardous under normal use
DUST RISK: Avoid inhalation of dust
MELTING: Ensure adequate ventilation during melting operations
PPE: Gloves, safety goggles, dust mask should be used
STORAGE: Store in dry, cool environment away from direct sunlight
OXIDATION: Protection against oxidation recommended due to iron content
Strength and Hardness Increase: AlFe master alloy significantly increases the mechanical strength and hardness of aluminum alloys through the formation of fine intermetallic particles (Al₃Fe, Al₆Fe) that provide dispersion strengthening. This makes AlFe alloys suitable for wear-resistant applications.
Microstructure Control: In aluminum castings, iron helps control grain structure and intermetallic phase formation, reducing hot tearing tendency and improving overall mechanical properties. Proper control of iron content is essential to avoid formation of coarse, brittle intermetallic phases.
Al-Si Casting Alloys: In Al-Si casting alloys, iron modifies the morphology of iron-containing intermetallic phases (such as β-Al₅FeSi), which can improve mechanical properties when properly controlled. The "iron factor" is a critical consideration in Al-Si foundry alloys.
Adjustable Iron Content: AlFe master alloy can be produced with iron contents ranging from 1% to 30% according to customer requirements. As iron percentage increases, mechanical strength and hardness increase, but a decrease in ductility is observed. Optimum iron content should be determined according to application requirements.
Wear Resistance: Iron significantly improves the wear resistance and abrasion resistance of aluminum alloys, making AlFe alloys suitable for components exposed to friction and wear.
Aluminum Dust Safety: Aluminum dust generated during processing of AlFe alloy can be explosive. Avoid dust formation during processing and take appropriate dust control measures.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is prepared based on available technical data. The information provided is believed to be accurate. However, the user is solely responsible for determining the product's suitability for their specific applications and for complying with all applicable local, national, and international regulations and safety requirements. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Users are obligated to test the product in their own processes and applications. All occupational health and safety rules must be observed when working with AlFe master alloy.