LM6 Aluminium alloy is a cast aluminium alloy that is primarily used in the aerospace and automotive industries due to its excellent combination of mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. Below, we have provided some of the key chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of LM6 aluminium alloy:
Applications LM6 Aluminium Alloy
LM6 aluminium alloy is commonly used in a variety of applications, particularly where a combination of lightweight, corrosion resistance, and moderate mechanical strength is required. Some common applications include:
- Aerospace: LM6 is used in aerospace components, such as aircraft engine components, housings, and structural parts, where its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties are advantageous.
- Automotive: In the automotive industry, LM6 is used for engine components, transmission cases, and various structural parts, benefiting from its good machinability and corrosion resistance.
- Marine: Due to its excellent resistance to saltwater corrosion, LM6 is used in marine applications, including boat fittings, propellers, and other components exposed to seawater.
- General Engineering: LM6 is employed in a wide range of general engineering applications, including pump housings, valves, hydraulic components, and various machinery parts.
- Architectural: It’s used in architectural applications, such as decorative fittings and fixtures, due to its aesthetic appeal and resistance to atmospheric corrosion.
Chemical Composition of LM6 Alloy:
| Copper | 0.1 max | Magnesium | 0.10 max | Silicon | 10.0-13.0 |
| Iron | 0.6 max | Manganese | 0.5 max | Nickel | 0.1 max |
| Zinc | 0.1 max | Lead | 0.1 max | Tin | 0.05 max |
| Titanium | 0.2 max | Aluminium | Remainder | Others each | 0.5 max |
| Others total | 0.15 max |
Physical Properties of LM6 Alloy:
| Density | Melting Point | Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) | Electrical Conductivity |
| 2.68 g/cm³ | Approximately 580°C (1076°F) | 21.6 x 10^-6/°C (20-100°C) | LM6 has good electrical conductivity |
Mechanical Properties of LM6 Alloy:
| Tensile Strength | Yield Strength | Elongation | Hardness (Brinell) | Fatigue Strength |
| 240 MPa (35,000 psi) in the as-cast condition | 140 MPa (20,000 psi) in the as-cast condition | 1-3% in the as-cast condition | 70 – 85 HB (in the as-cast condition) | LM6 exhibits good fatigue resistance |
More about LM6:
- Heat Treatment: LM6 aluminium alloy can undergo heat treatment processes to improve its mechanical properties. Heat treatment may involve solution heat treatment and artificial ageing. This can enhance the alloy’s strength and hardness.
- Surface Finish: LM6 alloy can be easily finished, including various surface treatments like anodizing, painting, and powder coating. These treatments can further improve its corrosion resistance and appearance.
- Joining Methods: Apart from welding, LM6 can be joined using methods like adhesive bonding and mechanical fastening, which are especially useful when preserving the alloy’s corrosion resistance is crucial.
- Alloy Comparisons: LM6 is similar to other aluminium-silicon-copper alloys like LM25 and LM4. However, it typically has a higher copper content compared to LM25, which can enhance its mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
- Environmental Considerations: Aluminium alloys, including LM6, are considered environmentally friendly due to their recyclability. Recycling aluminium requires significantly less energy compared to primary production, making it a sustainable material choice.
It’s important to note that the specific properties and applications of LM6 can vary based on the manufacturing process and the exact alloy composition used by different manufacturers. Therefore, when selecting or specifying LM6 for a particular application, it’s advisable to consult the alloy’s data sheet provided by the manufacturer or work with a materials engineer to ensure it meets the required specifications.
