An aluminium alloy that bakes eight times faster - and is up to 20 per cent tougher than traditional alloys - is currently undergoing industry testing.

CSIRO research scientists have developed an aluminium alloy that bakes eight times faster and is up to 20 per cent tougher than traditional alloys

The clever aluminium baking recipe, also known as heat treatment processes T6I6 and T6I4, is currently undergoing industry testing.

Harder with time
The strengthening process continues to harden and strengthen aluminium at room temperature, after an initial fast-bake.

‘Our heat treatment process reduces processing and manufacturing costs by getting components out of the furnace fast,’ says lead scientist, Dr Roger Lumley.

‘This allows components to move quickly to an assembly or painting line where the alloy components will continue to gain greater strength.’

The new heat treatment processes overcome the problem of either increasing the strength of aluminium, whilst reducing its fracture toughness, or vice versa.

‘Our heat treatment process reduces processing and manufacturing costs by getting components out of the furnace fast.’
Dr Roger Lumley, CSIRO scientist‘We've found a way of doing both at the same time,’ says Dr Lumley.

In the field
CSIRO is testing the technology with a number of companies who manufacture car body panels, engine components, wheels, aerospace parts and aluminum window frames.

Dr Lumley says the alloy’s behaviour can be used to tailor properties for specific performance requirements such as strength, ductility, damage tolerance or fatigue.

‘Not only can aluminium alloy producers boost the strength of their product while making considerable energy cost savings, but the processes also allow a faster turnaround time in producing finished components, and may even lead to reduced furnace sizes,’ he says