2024-T3 Aluminum properties
2024 is a high-strength aluminum-copper alloy widely used in aircraft structures. In the T3 temper it offers excellent strength and fatigue resistance, though its corrosion resistance is lower than other grades, so it is often clad or coated.
Mechanical properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Yield strength | 50 ksi (345 MPa) |
| Ultimate tensile strength | 70 ksi (483 MPa) |
| Elongation | 18% |
| Hardness | 120 HB (Brinell) |
| Modulus of elasticity | 10,600 ksi (73 GPa) |
Physical properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.100 lb/in³ (2780 kg/m³) |
| Melting point | about 500 to 640 °C |
Thermal properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Thermal conductivity | 121 W/m·K |
| Thermal expansion | 23.2 µm/m·°C |
| Specific heat | 875 J/kg·K |
Values are typical for the grade and condition shown. Actual properties vary with temper, heat treatment, and product form, so use these for comparison and preliminary design and confirm against material certificates for final work.
Compare with other materials
See the Material Properties Comparison, Yield Strength, and Density charts.
Typical uses
2024-T3 is used for aircraft skins, wing and fuselage structures, and fatigue-critical parts. Its high strength and good fatigue life made it a staple of aircraft construction, usually supplied as Alclad sheet with a pure-aluminum surface layer for corrosion protection.
How it compares
2024 is one of the strongest aluminum alloys, rivaled mainly by 7075. It is stronger than structural 6061 but harder to weld and less corrosion resistant, so it is chosen for high-strength, fatigue-loaded aerospace parts rather than general fabrication.
FAQ
What is 2024-T3 aluminum used for?
Aircraft skins and structures, and other fatigue-critical parts needing high strength. It is commonly supplied as Alclad sheet for corrosion protection.
Is 2024 aluminum weldable?
Not readily by fusion welding; the copper content makes it crack-prone. It is usually riveted or bonded instead.
Why is 2024 often clad?
Its copper content lowers corrosion resistance, so a thin pure-aluminum cladding (Alclad) is bonded to the surface for protection.