2024 — Aluminium Grade Specification, Properties & Equivalents
The 2024 aluminium alloy is a high-strength, heat-treatable alloy primarily used in aerospace and defence applications demanding exceptional performance. In India, its use is concentrated within specialized sectors, particularly in manufacturing airframes, helicopter components,
The 2024 aluminium alloy is a high-strength, heat-treatable alloy primarily used in aerospace and defence applications demanding exceptional performance. In India, its use is concentrated within specialized sectors, particularly in manufacturing airframes, helicopter components, and high-performance racing equipment. The critical need for lightweight yet robust materials makes 2024 aluminium alloy indispensable for structural integrity and operational efficiency. Its significance lies in enabling advanced engineering solutions where weight reduction is paramount without compromising safety or load-bearing capacity. For Indian manufacturers, sourcing and fabricating 2024 aluminium alloy requires adherence to stringent quality standards and specialized handling due to its unique properties derived from alloying elements like copper. This testament to material science provides a competitive edge in high-tech industries, underpinning India's growing capabilities in advanced manufacturing. It's a go-to material for applications demanding the best.
Chemical Composition of 2024
2024 Aluminium Alloy Chemical Composition
| Element | Weight % |
| Aluminium (Al) | Balance |
| Copper (Cu) | 3.1 - 4.4 |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 1.2 - 1.8 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.3 - 1.0 |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.5 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.5 |
| Zinc (Zn) | ≤ 0.25 |
| Chromium (Cr) | ≤ 0.1 |
| Titanium (Ti) | ≤ 0.15 |
| Others (each) | ≤ 0.05 |
| Others (total) | ≤ 0.15 |
Mechanical Properties of 2024
2024 Aluminium Alloy Mechanical Properties (Typical Values for T4 Temper in T4 Condition)
| Property | Value |
| Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) | 400-460 MPa |
| Yield Strength (YS) | 270-300 MPa |
| Elongation at Break | 10-15 % |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 90-100 HB |
| Density | 2.77 g/cm³ |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 73 GPa |
2024 Aluminium Alloy Available Forms in India
| Shape | Typical Sizes | Standard Length |
| Sheet | 0.5 mm - 6 mm Thickness | Up to 3660 mm |
| Plate | 6 mm - 200 mm Thickness | Up to 3660 mm |
| Bar/Rods | Round: 10 mm - 150 mm Diameter | Up to 3000 mm |
| Tube/Tubing | Various Diameters and Wall Thicknesses | As per request |
| Wire | 0.5 mm - 10 mm Diameter | Coils |
2024 Aluminium Alloy Real-world Applications
- Aerospace: Primary structural components, wing spars, fuselage skins, aircraft frames.
- Defence: Military aircraft components, missile parts requiring high strength-to-weight ratio.
- Automotive: High-performance racing car chassis, suspension components, and engine parts.
- Sporting Goods: Advanced bicycle frames, high-end sports equipment components.
- Industrial Machinery: Specialized structural components in high-stress applications.
- Marine: Components in high-speed vessels or specialized marine structures.
2024 Aluminium Alloy Machinability & Weldability
Machinability
Aluminium alloy 2024 exhibits good machinability, especially in the T4 temper. Its relatively high copper content and alloying elements can lead to slightly tougher chips compared to softer aluminium grades. For optimal results with 2024 alloy, it is recommended to use high-speed steel or carbide cutting tools. Sharp tools and appropriate cutting fluids are crucial to prevent chip welding and achieve a good surface finish. Recommended cutting speeds should be moderate, and coolant flow should be generous to dissipate heat effectively. Machining operations like milling, turning, drilling, and sawing can be performed on 2024 aluminium, but care must be taken to avoid excessive tool wear and maintain dimensional accuracy. Due to potential for work hardening, intermittent cuts are generally preferred. Ensure proper chip evacuation to prevent re-cutting and surface damage when machining 2024 alloy.
Weldability
The weldability of 2024 aluminium alloy is considered poor to fair, primarily due to its high copper content. Welding 2024 alloy can lead to hot cracking and a significant reduction in the mechanical properties of the alloy in the heat-affected zone (HAZ). It is generally not recommended for standard fusion welding processes like TIG or MIG unless absolutely necessary, and even then, only with specialized procedures and filler materials. Resistance welding, such as spot welding or seam welding, is a more viable option for joining 2024 components, especially in aerospace applications. If fusion welding is unavoidable, electron beam welding or laser beam welding might offer better control. Post-weld heat treatment is critical to restore some of the mechanical strength lost during welding, but it is a complex process for 2024 alloy. Careful consideration of the application and joint design is paramount before attempting to weld 2024 aluminium.
2024 Aluminium Alloy Heat Treatment & Processing
The heat treatment and processing of 2024 aluminium alloy are critical for achieving its characteristic high strength. The primary heat treatment is solution heat treatment followed by ageing. Typically, 2024 alloy is heated to 495-505°C (925-940°F) for solution treatment, then rapidly quenched in cold water. This process dissolves the alloying elements, primarily copper and magnesium, into the aluminium matrix. Following solution treatment, the alloy naturally ages at room temperature over several days to reach the T4 temper, offering a good balance of strength and ductility. For higher strength, artificial ageing (precipitation hardening) can be employed, usually at temperatures between 150-190°C (300-375°F) for several hours, resulting in the T6 temper. Normalizing is not applicable to 2024 aluminium alloy. Annealing, to soften the material for formability, typically involves heating to 390-425°C (735-795°F) and cooling slowly. Processing 2024 requires careful temperature control to avoid over-ageing or grain growth. Workability is best in the annealed or T4 condition. The specific heat treatment cycle for 2024 alloy depends heavily on the desired final properties and temper.
2024 Aluminium Alloy Sourcing in India
Sourcing 2024 aluminium alloy in India is typically managed through specialized suppliers and manufacturers catering to high-specification industries like aerospace and defence. Major Indian producers like HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) and other defence-linked PSUs may have captive production or strong sourcing channels. Private sector players specializing in aerospace-grade materials, mainly located near defence hubs like Bengaluru, or import agents in Mumbai and Pune, are key sources. Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) for 2024 alloy can be substantial, often starting from 100 kgs for sheets and plates, and higher for custom extrusions or forgings, reflecting its niche application. The price band for 2024 aluminium alloy in India can range widely, typically from INR 500 to INR 800 per kg, depending on the form, quantity, specific temper, and prevailing global aluminium prices. Buyers should always expect Mill Test Certificates (MTC) detailing the exact chemical composition and mechanical properties according to relevant IS or ASTM standards. Full traceability and PMI (Positive Material Identification) are often mandatory requirements for 2024 alloy procurement.
2024 Aluminium Alloy International Equivalents
| Standard | Code |
| ASTM | 2024 |
| EN | Al-2024 |
| JIS | A2024 |
| DIN | 2.1054.10 / AlCuMg2 |
| GOST | Д16 (D16) |
FAQs about 2024
What is the primary use of 2024 aluminium alloy in India?
In India, the 2024 aluminium alloy is predominantly utilized in the aerospace and defence sectors. Its high strength-to-weight ratio makes it ideal for manufacturing critical aircraft components such as fuselage sections, wing structures, and other airframe parts where performance and safety are paramount. It also finds application in high-performance automotive racing components.
What are the key alloying elements in 2024 aluminium?
The primary alloying element in 2024 aluminium alloy is copper (Cu), typically ranging from 3.1% to 4.4%. It also contains significant amounts of magnesium (Mg) between 1.2% and 1.8%, and manganese (Mn) around 0.3% to 1.0%. These elements, combined with the aluminium matrix, provide the alloy with its characteristic high strength and heat-treatable properties.
Is 2024 aluminium alloy easy to weld?
No, the 2024 aluminium alloy is generally considered to have poor to fair weldability. Its high copper content makes it susceptible to hot cracking during fusion welding processes. While resistance welding is a more feasible option, fusion welding requires specialized techniques, filler materials, and often results in a significant decrease in mechanical properties in the welded zone.
What is the typical temper for 2024 aluminium used in structural applications?
For many structural applications, especially in aerospace, the 2024 aluminium alloy is commonly used in the T4 temper (solution heat-treated and naturally aged) or the T6 temper (solution heat-treated and artificially aged). The T6 temper offers higher strength compared to T4, making it suitable for components requiring maximum load-bearing capacity.
Where can I source 2024 aluminium alloy in India?
In India, 2024 aluminium alloy can be sourced from specialized metal suppliers, particularly those serving the aerospace, defence, and high-performance automotive industries. Key sourcing hubs include Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Pune. Companies like HAL may have direct or indirect supply chains, alongside dedicated industrial metal distributors focusing on high-grade alloys.
Tags: grade, aluminium, 2024