2024 aluminum alloy belongs to the 2xxx series of heat-treatable aluminum alloys, characterized by copper as the primary alloying element. This composition gives 2024 aluminum its signature high strength, making it one of the most widely used materials in aerospace structural applications. For manufacturers looking to sell on Alibaba.com and reach global aerospace buyers, understanding the precise specifications and performance characteristics of 2024 alloy is essential for positioning products correctly in the international B2B marketplace.
| Element | Percentage Range |
|---|---|
| Aluminum (Al) | 90.7 - 94.7% |
| Copper (Cu) | 3.8 - 4.9% |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 1.2 - 1.8% |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.3 - 0.9% |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.5% |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.5% |
| Zinc (Zn) | ≤ 0.25% |
| Titanium (Ti) | ≤ 0.15% |
Source: Ryerson Metal Resources [1]
The copper content (3.8-4.9%) is the primary driver of 2024 aluminum's exceptional strength properties. Copper forms strengthening precipitates during heat treatment, significantly increasing yield and tensile strength. However, this same copper content is responsible for the alloy's poor corrosion resistance—a critical trade-off that buyers and suppliers must understand when specifying materials for aerospace applications.
Magnesium (1.2-1.8%) works synergistically with copper to form Al₂CuMg precipitates (known as S-phase), which provide additional strengthening. Manganese (0.3-0.9%) improves corrosion resistance slightly and helps control grain structure during processing. For Southeast Asian manufacturers exporting through Alibaba.com, clearly communicating these composition ranges in product listings helps buyers verify material compliance with aerospace specifications like AMS-QQ-A-250/4.
| Property | 2024-T3 | 2024-T351 | 2024-T4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 400-430 MPa | 470 MPa | 400-450 MPa |
| Yield Strength (0.2% offset) | 280-300 MPa | 325 MPa | 280-320 MPa |
| Elongation at Break | 10-15% | 10-12% | 15-20% |
| Fatigue Strength (500M cycles) | 138 MPa | 138 MPa | 130 MPa |
| Brinell Hardness | 120 HB | 120 HB | 115 HB |
Note: T3 = Solution heat treated, cold worked, naturally aged; T351 = Solution heat treated, stress relieved by stretching, naturally aged; T4 = Solution heat treated, naturally aged
The temper designation significantly affects mechanical properties. T351 temper offers the highest tensile strength (470 MPa) and is commonly specified for thick plates and structural components where maximum strength is critical. T3 temper provides a balance of strength and formability, making it suitable for sheet applications like wing skins. T4 temper offers better formability but lower strength, used where complex forming operations are required before final aging.
