AlCuMg1 (EN AW 2017) – High-strength aluminum alloy for demanding applications
DIN Material No. 3.1325
The aluminum alloy AlCuMg1 (EN AW 2017) belongs to the group of hardenable aluminum-copper alloys. It is characterized by high mechanical strength, good machinability, and low density. Due to these properties, it is frequently used in mechanical engineering, aviation, and vehicle construction. Especially for plates made of aluminum, this alloy offers an excellent solution when strength and workability are required.
What is AlCuMg1 (EN AW-2017)?
The aluminum alloy EN AW-2017 is based on aluminum (Al), which is alloyed with copper (Cu), magnesium (Mg), and manganese (Mn). This combination gives the alloy very good strength, which can be further increased by heat treatment.
Chemical Composition according to DIN Standard
| Element | Weight Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| Aluminum (Al) | 90.3 – 94.7 |
| Copper (Cu) | 3.5 – 4.5 |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 0.4 – 0.8 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.4 – 1.0 |
| Iron (Fe) | max. 0.7 |
| Silicon (Si) | max. 0.8 |
| Zinc (Zn) | max. 0.25 |
The composition complies with DIN standards, which ensure consistently high quality. Especially for aluminum plates, it is important that they meet these standards.
Properties & Advantages of AlCuMg1 (EN AW-2017)
- High mechanical strength → Ideal for heavily stressed components
- Good machinability → Perfect for CNC machining
- Good fatigue resistance → Resilient in dynamic applications
- Low density → Lower weight than steel
- Limited corrosion resistance → Protection by anodizing or powder coating recommended
- Weldability is limited → Prefer alternative joining techniques
Mechanical Properties according to DIN
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile strength (Rm) | 370 – 460 MPa |
| Yield strength (Rp0.2) | 250 – 370 MPa |
| Brinell hardness (HBW 10/500) | 95 – 120 |
| Density | 2.79 g/cm³ |
| Modulus of elasticity | 72 GPa |
| Melting point | 500 – 650 °C |
These values comply with DIN standards for high-performance alloys and make EN AW-2017 one of the best options for plates.
Comparison: Aluminum EN AW-2017 vs. Steel
Many applications require either high-strength aluminum alloys or steel. Here is a direct comparison:
| Property | EN AW 2017 (AlCuMg1) | Comparison Steel (S355J2+N) |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 2.79 g/cm³ | 7.85 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength (Rm) | 370 – 460 MPa | 490 – 630 MPa |
| Hardness (HBW) | 95 – 120 | 150 – 190 |
| Corrosion Resistance | Low | Moderate |
| Weldability | Limited | Good |
| Machining | Very good | Moderate |
- Lighter than steel: Aluminum plates are ideal for constructions that need to save weight
- Easy processing: Aluminum is easier to mill and turn than steel
- High strength: A decisive advantage, especially in the aerospace industry
Typical Applications for AlCuMg1 (EN AW-2017)
This aluminum alloy is used in many industries, especially where high strength and low weight are required.
- Aerospace industry – Highly stressed structural components
- Vehicle manufacturing – High-strength chassis parts and body components
- Mechanical engineering – CNC-machined components with high tensile strength
- Sports equipment – Frames for bicycles and motorsport parts
Especially for aluminum plates, EN AW-2017 is suitable because they are robust and at the same time easy to process.
Comparison: EN AW-2017 vs. Other Aluminum Alloys
| Property | EN AW 2017 | EN AW 6082 | EN AW 7075 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Machinability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good |
⭐⭐ Moderate |
⭐⭐⭐ Good |
| Strength | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ High |
⭐⭐⭐ Medium |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very high |
| Weldability | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Corrosion Resistance | ⭐ Low |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very high |
⭐⭐ Moderate |
For plates, EN AW-6082 offers better weldability, while EN AW-7075 is used for extremely heavy-duty components.
When is AlCuMg1 (EN AW-2017) worthwhile?
The aluminum alloy EN AW-2017 is perfect for applications requiring high strength and good machinability. This alloy is indispensable, especially in the aerospace and automotive industries.
Advantages:
- Very high mechanical strength according to DIN standards
- Good machinability → Perfect for CNC machining
- Low weight → Better than steel for lightweight construction
Disadvantages:
-
Low corrosion resistance → Surface protection required
Limited weldability → Alternatively: screws or rivets
If you are looking for a high-strength aluminum alloy for heavily stressed components, EN AW-2017 is an excellent choice!
