Aging Characteristics of Al-4.5% Cu-1.4% Mg-0.5% Ag

The effects of single-step and two-step aging treatments on the tensile properties of an A1-4.5%Cu-1.4%Mg- 0.5%Ag alloy have been investigated. Results showed that a maximum ultimate tensile strength of 75 ksi can be attained by single-step aging 24 hr at 170°C. The two-step aging treatments consisting of first aging one week at 80°C followed by aging at 160° and 190°C led to lower strength properties than simple one-step aging. Reversion treatments applied to fully age-hardened alloy resulted in an almost progressive loss of strength in the 250° to 375° range