Abstract Scope |
The high strength, precipitation hardening Aluminum alloy 7075 (Al7075) is a desirable structural material due to low density, high strength to weight ratio, and ease of fabricability. In this work, near shape press and sinter processing of premixed and prealloyed Al7075 powders are compared. Both premixed and gas atomized prealloyed Al7075 powders were consolidated using room temperature closed die compaction followed by controlled atmosphere sinter densification. Starting powders were characterized for morphology, size distribution, hardness, and phase constituents. Both premixed and prealloyed powders were compacted at stresses up to 600 MPa using add mixed and die wall lubricants. Sinter densification was performed in inert and semi-inert atmospheres with sintering temperatures guided by thermal analysis. The resultant materials were characterized for density, microstructure, phase development, hardness, and hardening response. This work is intended to advance press and sinter processing of high strength Al alloys in powder form for potential structural applications. |