Aircraft aluminum is a crucial component in the aviation industry. It is used to manufacture various parts of an aircraft, including the fuselage, wings, and landing gear. Two of the most commonly used aircraft aluminum alloys are 7178-T6 and 7079-T6. While they may seem similar, there are distinct differences between the two that make them suitable for different applications.
Composition
The composition of an alloy determines its properties, including strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. 7178-T6 is an aluminum alloy that contains copper, zinc, and magnesium. It has a higher copper content than other aluminum alloys, which gives it excellent strength and fatigue resistance. On the other hand, 7079-T6 is an aluminum alloy that contains zinc, magnesium, and copper. It has a higher magnesium content than 7178-T6, which makes it more corrosion-resistant.
Strength
Strength is a critical factor in aircraft aluminum alloys. The strength of an alloy determines its ability to withstand stress and pressure. 7178-T6 has a higher strength than 7079-T6. It has a tensile strength of 83 ksi (kilopounds per square inch) and a yield strength of 73 ksi. In contrast, 7079-T6 has a tensile strength of 75 ksi and a yield strength of 68 ksi. This makes 7178-T6 suitable for applications that require high strength, such as aircraft wings and fuselage.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion resistance is another essential property of aircraft aluminum alloys. Corrosion can weaken the structure of an aircraft and compromise its safety. 7079-T6 has better corrosion resistance than 7178-T6 due to its higher magnesium content. Magnesium is a natural corrosion inhibitor that forms a protective layer on the surface of the alloy, preventing further corrosion. This makes 7079-T6 suitable for applications that require high corrosion resistance, such as aircraft landing gear.
Machinability
Machinability refers to the ease with which an alloy can be machined or shaped. 7178-T6 has better machinability than 7079-T6 due to its lower magnesium content. Magnesium can cause the alloy to become brittle and difficult to machine. This makes 7178-T6 suitable for applications that require complex shapes and designs, such as aircraft engine components.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the distinctions between 7178-T6 and 7079-T6 aircraft aluminum is crucial in selecting the right alloy for a specific application. While both alloys have similar properties, their composition, strength, corrosion resistance, and machinability differ. 7178-T6 is suitable for applications that require high strength and machinability, while 7079-T6 is suitable for applications that require high corrosion resistance. By selecting the right alloy, aircraft manufacturers can ensure the safety and reliability of their products.
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