Study on microstructure and mechanical properties of 3003 alloys with scandium and copper addition

The effect of Scandium (Sc) and Copper (Cu) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the 3003 alloy were investigated. The results showed that the addition of Cu can promote the precipitation of α-Al(Mn,Fe)Si dispersoids during brazing. With the addition of Sc and Cu, the average grain size of 3003 alloy was significantly refined. The recrystallization resistance of the simulated brazing alloy was improved by Sc, which was mainly due to the precipitation of Al3Sc particles. The α-Al(Mn,Fe)Si dispersoids and Al3Sc particles exist simultaneously after annealing, which can improve the strength of Sc-containing 3003 alloy. The 3003 alloy added with Sc and Cu has the best mechanical performance among the three experimental alloys. •The addition of Cu can promote the precipitation of α-Al(Mn,Fe)Si dispersoids after brazing.•The precipitation of Al3Sc particles was the predominated strengthening mechanism in the simulated brazing 3003 alloys.•The recrystallization resistance of the simulated brazing alloy was improved due to the precipitation of Al3Sc particles.•The strength of the 3003 alloys were improved by means of microalloying with Sc and Cu.