When it comes to aerospace engineering, materials play a vital role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of an aircraft. Aluminium alloys are popular with aerospace manufacturers due to their lightweight and exceptional strength properties. One such aluminium alloy that finds extensive use in the aerospace industry is AMS 4086. This blog post will deeply dive into AMS 4086, its composition, physical and mechanical properties, uses of hardness, and heat treatment.
What is AMS 4086?
AMS 4086 is a specification set by the Society of Automotive Engineers for aluminium alloy. This alloy is widely used in numerous applications, such as aircraft structures, automotive parts, and marine components. The specifications within AMS4086 provide detailed instructions for the manufacturing process of the aluminium alloy necessary to meet specific requirements. In simpler terms, the guidelines outline the characteristics the aluminium alloy should possess, such as strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance, ensuring that it is of the highest quality possible. With AMS4086, manufacturers can confidently produce, and consumers can trust that they are using a reliable product.
AMS 4086 Composition
AMS 4086 is an aluminium alloy composed mainly of aluminium, with small additions of copper, manganese, and magnesium. Copper enhances the hardness and strength of the alloy, while manganese and magnesium improve the corrosion resistance and weldability, respectively. AMS 4086 also contains traces of iron, silicon, and zinc.
AMS 4086 Physical Properties
The density of AMS 4086 is 2.8 g/cm3, with a melting point of 580°C. The alloy exhibits excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, making it an ideal material for aerospace applications that require heat dissipation or electrical conductivity. The coefficient of thermal expansion of AMS 4086 is 23.7×10-6 K-1.
AMS 4086 Mechanical Properties
AMS 4086 has excellent tensile and yield strengths, with 440 MPa and 355 MPa, respectively. The alloy also has superior fatigue and fracture toughness properties, making it resistant to fatigue crack growth. Its elongation at break is around 13%, indicating good elasticity. The hardness of AMS 4086 varies depending on the heat treatment process and ranges from 73 to 89 HRB.
AMS 4086 Uses
AMS 4086 is a popular choice for aerospace and aviation applications that require excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. Its a high strength and flexibility make it suitable for manufacturing aircraft structural components, such as fuselage frames and wing ribs. It is also used to construct helicopter rotor blades, landing gear, and hydraulic systems.
AMS 4086 Hardness
The hardness of AMS 4086 is measured using the Rockwell hardness scale. Hardness values for AMS 4086 typically range from 73 to 89 HRB, depending on the heat treatment process. Heat treatments can be performed to increase hardness further or to modify other mechanical properties for specific applications.
AMS 4086 Heat treatment
Heat treatment processes can be used to modify the mechanical properties of AMS 4086 for specific applications. Solution heat treatment enhances the alloy’s mechanical strength and flexibility. After solution heat treatment, AMS 4086 is usually aged to achieve the optimum combination of strength and toughness for specific applications. The heat treatment process also affects the hardness of the alloy.
Conclusion:
AMS 4086 is an aluminium alloy with unique physical and mechanical properties ideal for aerospace and aviation applications. It is an excellent choice for manufacturing aircraft structural components, helicopter rotor blades, and hydraulic systems due to its superb strength, fatigue, and fracture toughness properties. Heat treatment plays a significant role in modifying the properties of AMS 4086 for specific applications, and the hardness usually ranges from 73 to 89 HRB. In summary, AMS 4086 is a versatile and durable material that ensures the safety and efficiency of aircraft.
A passionate metal industry expert and blogger. With over 5 years of experience in the field, Palak brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her writing. Whether discussing the latest trends in the metal industry or sharing tips, she is dedicated to helping others succeed in the metal industry.
