REVIEW OF ALUMINIUM ALLOYS AND QUALITY CONTROL STANDARDS IN THE RAILWAY INDUSTRY

Abstract

In this paper, brief review of aluminum alloys and their properties is presented. Aluminum alloys are among the most commonly used materials in railway and other industries in general. Aluminum alloys are suitable for production of lightweight and good carrying capacity constructions. These alloys are corrosion resistant which makes them suitable for application in various environments. Classification of aluminum alloys is presented, with main groups of cast and wrought alloys, whereas aluminium alloys of 5xxx and 6xxx series are the most important in the railway industry. Properties of 5xxx and 6xxx aluminium alloys are reviewed, especially focusing on the most commonly used aluminum alloys in railway industry: 5052, 5083, 5754, 6005A, 6061, 6063, 6082, and 6106 alloys. Comparison between their tensile and yield strength is given. Aluminum alloy 6082 is currently considered to be the material of choice for testing in friction stir welding of railway vehicle elements. Possibility of fusion and friction stir welding (FSW) is discussed. Some of the relevant quality control standards are listed.