High Cu content in A356-T6
High Cu content in A356-T6
(OP)
What impact would High Cu have in A356. Keep in mind A356 has a low Cu content compared to other Aluminum alloys. The specified is .20 max and we have 0.422.
Thanks in advance for answers. I had some ideas but wanted to confirm them
Thanks in advance for answers. I had some ideas but wanted to confirm them





RE: High Cu content in A356-T6
At 0.42% Cu instead of <0.2%, you might expect lower ductility values, but with slightly higher tensile strength. The processing and casting steps will also have some effects on the mechanical properties of the end-product.
RE: High Cu content in A356-T6
The big effect will be on corrosion resistance. Cu forms intermetallic phases that are cathodic to the base aluminum and therefore promote localized pitting corrosion and stress corrosion cracking.
RE: High Cu content in A356-T6
Chemical analysis indicated an avgerage of 0.65% Cu in the problem parts. The prsence of Cu particles was confirmed by SEM. We were supposed to be getting virgin melt as per print. Someone from our side allowed the addition of remelt with no constraints to gain a slight cost advantage.