Aluminium alloy 2011 is a high mechanical strength alloy with exceptional machinability. Commonly referred to as a Free Machining Alloy (FMA), it is particularly well suited for automatic lathe operations. High-speed machining produces fine, easily removable chips, enabling the manufacture of complex and detailed components. In certain applications, alloy 2011 can replace free-machining brass without the need for tooling modifications. The alloy has poor corrosion resistance, therefore components are typically anodised to enhance surface protection. Where improved 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 |
|---|---|
| Iron (Fe) | 0.00 – 0.70 |
| Copper (Cu) | 5.00 – 6.00 |
| Lead (Pb) | 0.20 – 0.40 |
| Bismuth (Bi) | 0.20 – 0.60 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.00 – 0.40 |
| Zinc (Zn) | 0.00 – 0.30 |
| Other (Each) | 0.00 – 0.05 |
| Others (Total) | 0.00 – 0.15 |
| Aluminium (Al) | Balance |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 2.83 g/cm³ |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 70 GPa |
| Thermal Expansion | 22.9 × 10⁻⁶ /K |
| Melting Point | 535 °C |
Form: Extruded rod and bar (up to 75 mm diameter)
Spec: BS EN 755-2:2008
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 310 MPa (Min) |
| Proof Stress | 230 MPa (Min) |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 110 HB |
| Elongation A | 8% (Min) |
Aluminium alloy 2011 also corresponds to the following designations (not direct equivalents):
The most common temper for 2011 aluminium extruded rod and bar:
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 |
