Aluminium UNI P-AlCu4.4SiMnMg Plates - UNS AA2014 Sheets

Product Description

Technical Correlation

Chemical Composition Comparison

The Italian UNI designation explicitly lists the primary alloying elements in order of their concentration:

• Al: Aluminium (Base)

• Cu (4.4%): Copper is the primary alloying element, providing high strength through precipitation hardening.

• Si: Silicon improves fluidity and hardness.

• Mn: Manganese increases recrystallization temperature and strengthens the matrix.

• Mg: Magnesium enhances the strength-to-weight ratio and response to heat treatment.

Comparison of Plates vs. Sheets (AA2014)

When sourcing this material, the distinction between "Sheet" and "Plate" often dictates the manufacturing process and the final temper.

UNS AA2014 Sheets (Thin Gauge)

• Thickness: Generally < 6mm.

• Form: Cold-rolled.

• Common State: Often supplied as Alclad. Because 2014 is prone to corrosion, sheets are frequently "clad" with a thin layer of high-purity aluminum (usually alloy 1050 or 1230) on both sides to provide galvanic protection.

• Application: Aircraft fuselage skins, wing skins, and fairings.

UNI P-AlCu4.4SiMnMg Plates (Thick Gauge)

• Thickness: Generally > 6mm (up to several hundred mm).

• Form: Hot-rolled or forged.

• Common State: Usually T651. This indicates the plate has been solution heat-treated, artificially aged, and stress-relieved by stretching to ensure dimensional stability during machining.

• Application: Structural bulkheads, military bridge components, and heavy-duty forged parts.

Mechanical Properties (Typical T6/T651)

Critical Fabrication Advice

• Do Not Weld: Like its WNr 3.1255 counterpart, this alloy is generally considered non-weldable by traditional fusion methods. It is sensitive to "hot cracking." If joining is required, use mechanical fasteners or friction stir welding.

• Machining: This is where the alloy shines. It allows for high-speed cutting with excellent surface finishes. However, carbide-tipped tools are recommended due to the Silicon content.

• Surface Protection: If the material is not "Alclad," it must be anodized (Chromic or Sulfuric acid anodizing) or primed with a zinc-chromate primer to prevent rapid oxidation in industrial or marine environments.

Note: If your design requires high strength but also needs to be welded, you might consider switching to a 7000-series alloy (like 7075) or a high-strength 6000-series (like 6082), though neither perfectly matches the specific machining characteristics of AA2014.