Aluminium alloy 2011 is a high mechanical strength alloy with exceptional machinability. Often referred to as a Free Machining Alloy (FMA), it is ideally suited for use in automatic lathes. High-speed machining produces fine, easily removable chips, allowing the manufacture of complex and detailed components. In many applications, alloy 2011 can replace free-machining brass without the need for tooling modifications. The alloy has poor corrosion resistance, therefore components are commonly anodised to improve surface protection. Where higher corrosion resistance is required, 6262 T9 may be considered as an alternative.
Alloy 2011 is typically used for:
Alloy: 2011
Spec: BS EN 573-3:2009
| Chemical Element | % Present |
|---|---|
| Silicon (Si) | 0.00 – 0.40 |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.00 – 0.70 |
| Copper (Cu) | 5.00 – 6.00 |
| Lead (Pb) | 0.20 – 0.40 |
| Bismuth (Bi) | 0.20 – 0.60 |
| Zinc (Zn) | 0.00 – 0.30 |
| Others (Total) | 0.00 – 0.15 |
| Other (Each) | 0.00 – 0.05 |
| Aluminium (Al) | Balance |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 2.83 g/cm³ |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 70 GPa |
| Electrical Resistivity | 0.038 × 10⁻⁶ Ω·m |
| Thermal Conductivity | 151 W/m·K |
| Thermal Expansion | 22.9 × 10⁻⁶ /K |
| Melting Point | 535 °C |
Form: Extruded and drawn bar (up to 200 mm Ø or 60 mm A/F)
Spec: BS EN 755-2:2008
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Proof Stress | 270 MPa (Min) |
| Tensile Strength | 320 MPa (Min) |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 90 HB (Min) |
| Elongation A | 10% (Min) |
Aluminium alloy 2011 also corresponds to the following designations (not direct equivalents):
The most common temper for 2011 aluminium bar (extruded and drawn):
Alloy 2011 has extremely poor weldability, and welding is not recommended. As the alloy is primarily used for machined components, welding is rarely required.
| Process | Rating |
|---|---|
| Workability – Cold | Fair |
| Machinability | Excellent |
| Weldability – Gas | Poor |
| Weldability – Arc | Poor |
| Weldability – Resistance | Poor |
| Brazability | Poor |
| Solderability | Fair |
