Aluminium alloy 2011 is a high mechanical strength alloy that machines exceptionally well. Often called a Free Machining Alloy or ‘FMA’ it is well suited to use in automatic lathes.
Aluminium Alloys Explained
Machining at high speeds produces fine chips that are easily removed. The excellent machining characteristics allow the production of complex and detailed parts. In some circumstances Aluminium alloy 2011 can replace free machining brass without the need for alterations to tooling.
It has poor corrosion resistance, which means parts made from Aluminium alloy 2011 tend to be anodised to provide additional surface protection.
When higher levels of corrosion resistance are required, 6262 T9 may be a suitable replacement.
Chemical Composition of Aluminium Alloy 2011
Table 1. Chemical composition for aluminium alloy 2011
| Element |
% Present |
| Si |
0.4% |
| Fe |
0.7% |
| Cu |
5.0-6.0% |
| Pb |
0.2-0.6% |
| Bi |
0.2-0.6% |
| Zn |
0.3% |
| Other |
0.15% |
| Al |
Balance |
Properties of Aluminium Alloy 2011
Mechanical Properties of Aluminium Alloy 2011
Table 2 (a). Mechanical properties for aluminium alloy 2011 T4
BS EN 755-2:2008
Rod and Bar
Up to 200mm Dia. or 60mm A/F |
| Property |
Value |
| Proof Stress |
125 Min MPa |
| Tensile Strength |
275 Min MPa |
| Elongation A50 mm |
12 min % |
| Hardness Brinell |
95 HB |
| Elongation A |
14 min % |
*Properties above are for material in the T4 condition
Table 2 (b). Mechanical properties for aluminium alloy 2011 T6
BS EN 755-2:2008
Rod and Bar
Up to 75mm Dia. |
| Property |
Value |
| Proof Stress |
230 Min MPa |
| Tensile Strength |
310 Min MPa |
| Elongation A50 mm |
6 min % |
| Hardness Brinell |
110 HB |
| Elongation A |
8 min % |
*Properties above are for material in the T6 condition
Physical Properties of Aluminium Alloy 2011
Table 3. Physical properties for aluminium alloy 2011
| Property |
Value |
| Density |
2.82 kg/m3 |
| Melting Point |
535°C |
| Modulus of Elasticity |
71 GPa |
| Electrical Resistivity |
0.45 x 10-6 Ω.m |
| Thermal Conductivity |
138 W/m.K |
| Thermal Expansion |
23 x 10-6/K |
Alloy Designations
Aluminium alloy 2011 also corresponds to the following standard designations and specifications:
- AlCu6BiPb
- FC1
- A92011
- CB60
- 3.1655
- AlCuBiPb
Fabrication of Aluminium Alloy 2011
Welding
Aluminium alloy 2011 has extremely poor weldability and thus welding is not recommended. However, as it is used for machined parts there is rarely a need to weld this alloy.
Fabrication Response
Table 4. Fabrication response for aluminium alloy 2011
| Process |
Rating |
| Workability - Cold |
Fair |
| Machinability |
Excellent |
| Weldability – Gas |
Poor |
| Weldability – Arc |
Poor |
| Weldability – Resistance |
Poor |
| Brazability |
Poor |
| Solderability |
Fair |
Temper
The most common tempers for 2011 aluminium are:
- T3 – Solution heat treated, cold worked and naturally aged
- T6 – Solution heat treated and artificially aged
Applications of Aluminium Alloy 2011
Aluminium alloy 2011 is used in applications that require parts manufactured by repetition machining.
These applications may include:
- Appliance parts & trim
- Automotive trim
- Fasteners and fittings
- Ordnance
Supplied Forms
Aluminium alloy 2011 is supplied as either round or hexagonal bar
DISCLAIMER
This Data is indicative only and must not be seen as a substitute for the full specification from which it is drawn. In particular, the mechanical property requirements vary widely with temper, product and product dimensions. The information is based on our present knowledge and is given in good faith. However, no liability will be accepted by the Company is respect of any action taken by any third party in reliance thereon.
As the products detailed may be used for a wide variety of purposes and as the Company has no control over their use; the Company specifically excludes all conditions or warranties expressed or implied by statute or otherwise as to dimensions, properties and/or fitness for any particular purpose.
Any advice given by the Company to any third party is given for that party’s assistance only and without liability on the part of the Company. Any contract between the Company and a customer will be subject to the company’s Conditions of Sale. The extent of the Company’s liabilities to any customer is clearly set out in those Conditions; a copy of which is available on request.
This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Aalco - Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals Stockist.
For more information on this source, please visit Aalco - Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals Stockist.