Aluminum P/M Parts - Their Properties and Performance

This paper discusses the mechanical properties of precision P/M parts produced from aluminum alloys 201 AB and 601 AB and presents data on their corrosion resistance, wear performance, and machinability. The properties and characteristics of aluminum P/M materials are compared with iron P/M, brass P/M, and aluminum die castings. Alloy 201 AB develops ultimate tensile strengths up to 50,000 psi and provides a desirable combination of strength, ductility, impact and fatigue properties in a lightweight, eco- nomical P/M material. Alloy 601 AB achieves moderate strengths of 35,000 psi with superior corrosion resistance, high thermal and electrical conductivity, and has the ability to accept many attractive finishes. Both alloys can be machined at high cutting speeds to a smooth surface finish after heat treatment. In the T6 temper they possess high wear resistance approaching that of aluminum die cast alloys. These new aluminum P/M compositions have unique product properties providing the powder metal industry with broad new capabilities in many design applications.