7075-AlZnMgCu1.5 Aluminium Plates, Blocks & Sheets (ONORM)

Product Description

7075 Aluminium (AlZnMgCu1.5), under the Austrian –NORM standard, is a premier high-strength alloy. It belongs to the 7000 series, where zinc is the primary alloying element, providing mechanical properties that rival many structural steels.

1. Key Designations and Standards

The designation AlZnMgCu1.5 is the chemical shorthand used across Europe to identify this specific high-strength chemistry.

2. Chemical Composition (Typical %)

The high strength of this alloy is derived from the precise balance of Zinc, Magnesium, and Copper, which respond exceptionally well to precipitation hardening.

• Zinc (Zn): 5.10 “ 6.10%

• Magnesium (Mg): 2.10 “ 2.90%

• Copper (Cu): 1.20 “ 2.00%

• Chromium (Cr): 0.18 “ 0.28%

• Manganese (Mn): 0.30% max

• Aluminium (Al): Remainder

3. Mechanical Properties by Form

The properties of 7075-T6 (Solution heat-treated and artificially aged) are the most common for industrial applications.

4. Key Engineering Characteristics

• Strength-to-Weight: Exceptional. It is used to replace steel in applications where reducing mass is critical without sacrificing structural integrity.

• Machinability: Excellent. It is widely considered one of the best aluminium alloys for high-speed CNC milling and turning, as it produces clean, brittle chips.

• Corrosion Resistance: Poor. Due to the high copper and zinc content, it is susceptible to atmospheric corrosion and stress corrosion cracking. Surface treatments like hard-anodizing or chromating are highly recommended.

• Weldability: Not Recommended. Standard fusion welding (MIG/TIG) causes significant strength loss in the heat-affected zone and creates a high risk of cracking.

5. Common Applications

• Aerospace: Highly stressed structural parts, wing spars, and bulkheads.

• Precision Tooling: Mold bases for plastic injection molding and blow molds.

• Defense: High-performance components for military hardware and ordnance.

• Mechanical Engineering: High-speed rotating parts, gears, and shafts.

6. Available Forms in –NORM / EN Standards

• Sheets: Available in thin gauges for skins and panels (often "Alclad" for corrosion protection).

• Plates: Provided in thicknesses up to 150mm+, often in T651 temper (stress-relieved by stretching) to ensure dimensional stability after machining.

• Blocks: Large forged or rolled sections used for heavy-duty tool and die manufacturing.