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Send EmailAluminum-Copper Master Alloy, AlCu, 7429-90-5, 7440-50-8
Product Name: AlCu (Aluminum-Copper Master Alloy)
Alloy System: Al-Cu binary alloy system
Primary Use: Strength-enhancing additive for aluminum alloys, hardness improvement, electrical conductivity development, microstructure control in special casting applications
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Aluminum-Copper Master Alloy (AlCu) |
| Alloy System | Al-Cu binary alloy |
| Alloy Type | Master alloy, strength-enhancing additive alloy |
| Main Components | Aluminum (Al), Copper (Cu) |
| Form | Rod, ingot, or granule |
| Color | Silver-gray (slightly reddish tone due to copper content) |
| CAS Numbers | Aluminum (Al): 7429-90-5, Copper (Cu): 7440-50-8 |
| Primary Application | Mechanical strength enhancement, hardness improvement, conductivity development, microstructure control |
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION AND EXPLANATION:
Aluminum-Copper (AlCu) master alloy is a pre-alloy (master alloy) containing controlled amounts of copper within an aluminum matrix. Master alloys are concentrated alloys used to add specific elements to aluminum alloys in a controlled and homogeneous manner.
AlCu master alloy is used to add the element copper to aluminum-based alloys. Copper is one of the most important alloying elements in aluminum alloys and is added to enhance both mechanical strength and hardness. The Al-Cu alloy system forms the basis of the 2xxx series (Al-Cu-Mg) and 6xxx series (Al-Mg-Si-Cu) high-strength aluminum alloys. These alloys are widely used in aerospace, automotive, and machinery industries for applications requiring high strength.
This master alloy is supplied in rod, ingot, or granule form and can be produced with copper contents ranging from 1% to 30% according to customer requirements. AlCu master alloy provides a reliable and homogeneous source for adding copper to the final alloy and controlling alloy composition 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 |
| Copper (Cu) | 7440-50-8 | 1.0 – 30.0 | Active additive element; strength enhancer, hardness, conductivity |
| Other Impurities | - | ≤ 0.3 | Iron, silicon, etc. |
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION EXPLANATION:
The chemical composition of AlCu master alloy is designed to contain controlled amounts of copper ranging from 1% to 30% within an aluminum matrix. The copper content can be customized according to customer requirements and final application needs. As copper percentage increases, the alloy's mechanical strength and hardness increase, but a slight decrease in corrosion resistance may be observed. Impurity levels are strictly controlled to ensure alloy quality. CAS numbers for Aluminum (7429-90-5) and Copper (7440-50-8) 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 (slightly reddish tone) | - | Characteristic due to copper content |
| Density | 2.7 – 8.9 | g/cm³ | Depends on copper content |
| Melting Point | 600 – 650 | °C | Depends on Al-Cu alloy composition |
| Melting Point (Cu) | ~1085 | °C | Pure copper reference |
| Electrical Conductivity | Low-Medium | %IACS | Copper affects conductivity |
| Thermal Conductivity | Medium | W/m·K |
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:
AlCu master alloy is supplied in rod, ingot, or granule form. It has a silver-gray color with a slightly reddish tone due to copper content. Density varies significantly depending on copper content; while pure aluminum has a density of ~2.70 g/cm³, pure copper has a density of ~8.96 g/cm³. As copper content increases, the alloy's density increases from 2.7 to 8.9 g/cm³.
The melting point ranges from 600-650°C depending on the exact alloy composition. Copper addition slightly lowers the melting point of aluminum (~660°C). Electrical conductivity changes with copper addition; since copper has higher conductivity than aluminum, conductivity may improve in certain compositions. Thermal conductivity is at a medium level.
| Property | Evaluation | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Strength Increase | High | Copper significantly increases mechanical strength of aluminum alloys |
| Hardness Increase | High | Improves alloy hardness and wear resistance |
| Electrical Conductivity | Can be improved | Conductivity can be improved in certain compositions |
| Heat Treatment Response | Excellent | Strength can be significantly increased by aging |
| Castability | Good | Good fluidity in molten state |
| Microstructure Control | Good | Controls grain structure and precipitate formation |
| Homogeneous Distribution | Good | Master alloy ensures homogeneous addition |
| Alloy Control | Precise | Copper content can be precisely controlled |
FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:
The most important functional property of AlCu master alloy is its ability to significantly increase the mechanical strength and hardness of aluminum alloys. Copper has good solubility in aluminum solid solution and forms θ' (Al₂Cu) and θ (Al₂Cu) precipitates through aging heat treatment, imparting high strength to the alloy. This precipitation hardening mechanism forms the basis of the extraordinary strength properties of 2xxx series alloys.
Copper also affects the electrical conductivity of the alloy; in certain compositions, conductivity can be improved. AlCu master alloy provides precise alloy control; copper content can be precisely adjusted to optimize the final alloy's mechanical properties, hardness, and conductivity.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| High Mechanical Strength | Aerospace structural parts, automotive components, high-strength aluminum parts |
| Hardness and Wear Resistance | Machinery parts, gears, wear-resistant components |
| Electrical Conductivity | Electrical conductors, electrical contacts, electronic components |
| 2xxx Series Alloys | Al-Cu-Mg (2024, 2017) aerospace alloys |
| 6xxx Series Alloys | Al-Mg-Si-Cu (6061, 6082) structural alloys |
| Heat Treatable Alloys | Alloys with strength increased by precipitation hardening |
| Aerospace Industry | Aircraft fuselages, wing structures, landing gear |
| Automotive Industry | Engine components, chassis parts, lightweight structural components |
| Electrical/Electronics Industry | Conductors, contacts, connectors |
APPLICATION AREAS EXPLANATION:
High Mechanical Strength: AlCu master alloy is used in aerospace structural parts, automotive components, and high-strength aluminum parts. Copper significantly increases the tensile strength and yield strength of the alloy.
Hardness and Wear Resistance: AlCu alloys are used in machinery parts, gears, and wear-resistant components. Copper improves alloy hardness and wear resistance.
Electrical Conductivity: Certain AlCu alloys can be used in electrical conductors, electrical contacts, and electronic components.
2xxx and 6xxx Series Alloys: AlCu master alloy is the fundamental component of 2xxx (Al-Cu-Mg) and 6xxx (Al-Mg-Si-Cu) series alloys. 2xxx series aerospace alloys offer high strength, while 6xxx series structural alloys provide good strength and corrosion resistance combination.
Heat Treatment Response: AlCu alloys respond excellently to aging heat treatment. Strength can be significantly increased through the precipitation hardening mechanism.
| 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 copper 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:
AlCu master alloy should be stored in a dry and cool environment, protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Due to copper 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 | Ensure adequate ventilation during melting operations |
| 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-Cu alloys obtained by adding AlCu master alloy to the final alloy are given below. These values vary significantly depending on copper content, other alloy components, and heat treatment.
| Property | Value Range | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 150 – 600+ MPa | Depends on copper content and heat treatment |
| Yield Strength | 70 – 450+ MPa | |
| Elongation (%) | 3 – 18 | Ductility decreases with increasing copper content |
| Hardness (HB) | 40 – 150 | |
| High Temperature Strength | Medium | |
| Electrical Conductivity | Can be improved | In certain compositions |
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:
When AlCu master alloy is added to the final alloy, copper content and applied heat treatment cause significant changes in mechanical properties. Copper can significantly increase the mechanical strength of aluminum alloys. 2xxx series (Al-Cu-Mg) alloys can achieve tensile strength values exceeding 600 MPa with appropriate heat treatment.
As copper content increases, the alloy's tensile strength and hardness increase, but ductility (elongation) decreases. Mechanical properties vary significantly depending on the exact alloy composition (other elements such as Mg, Si) and applied heat treatment (solution treatment, quenching, aging).
SUMMARY:
Aluminum-Copper (AlCu) master alloy is a pre-alloy containing controlled amounts of copper (1-30%) within an aluminum matrix. It is supplied in rod, ingot, or granule form. Density ranges from 2.7-8.9 g/cm³ depending on copper content, and melting point ranges from 600-650°C.
AlCu master alloy is used to add copper to aluminum alloys. Copper significantly increases mechanical strength, improves hardness and wear resistance, and can improve electrical conductivity in certain compositions. It is the fundamental component of 2xxx (Al-Cu-Mg) and 6xxx (Al-Mg-Si-Cu) high-strength aluminum alloys. 2xxx series alloys, in particular, offer superior strength properties through heat treatment.
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-Copper Master Alloy (AlCu) |
| Alloy Type | Master alloy, strength-enhancing additive alloy |
| Form | Rod, ingot, granule |
| Color | Silver-gray (slightly reddish tone) |
| Density | 2.7 – 8.9 g/cm³ (depending on Cu content) |
| Melting Point | 600 – 650°C |
| Cu Content | 1 – 30% (customizable) |
| CAS Numbers | Al: 7429-90-5, Cu: 7440-50-8 |
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Aerospace | 2xxx series alloys, aircraft fuselages, wing structures, landing gear |
| Automotive | Engine components, chassis parts, lightweight structural components |
| Machinery | Gears, wear-resistant components, machinery parts |
| Electrical/Electronics | Conductors, electrical contacts, connectors |
| Casting | Alloy control and composition adjustment |
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
High Strength Increase: AlCu master alloy significantly increases the mechanical strength of aluminum alloys. 2xxx series alloys can achieve tensile strength values exceeding 600 MPa with appropriate heat treatment. This makes AlCu alloys ideal for high-strength applications in aerospace and automotive industries.
Heat Treatment Response: AlCu alloys respond excellently to aging heat treatment. Strength can be significantly increased through the precipitation hardening mechanism (θ' and θ phases). Heat treatment parameters are critical in determining final mechanical properties.
Adjustable Copper Content: AlCu master alloy can be produced with copper contents ranging from 1% to 30% according to customer requirements. As copper percentage increases, mechanical strength and hardness increase, but a decrease in corrosion resistance may be observed. Optimum copper content should be determined according to application requirements.
2xxx Series Aerospace Alloys: AlCu master alloy is the fundamental component of Al-Cu-Mg (2xxx) series aerospace alloys. These alloys are the most widely used high-strength aluminum alloys in the aerospace industry due to their high strength-to-weight ratio. 2024 alloy is widely used in aircraft fuselages and wing structures.
Corrosion Resistance: Copper addition generally reduces the corrosion resistance of aluminum alloys. Therefore, AlCu alloys are typically used with protective coatings (anodizing, alclad). In applications where corrosion resistance is critical, appropriate surface treatments should be applied.
Aluminum Dust Safety: Aluminum dust generated during processing of AlCu 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 AlCu master alloy.