2017A T42 aluminum alloy belongs to the Al-Cu-Mg (aluminum-copper-magnesium) series and is developed for applications requiring high strength. The T42 temper is obtained by solution heat treatment followed by natural aging, providing a balanced combination of strength and ductility. This alloy is widely used in aerospace and automotive industries because it offers high mechanical strength along with acceptable machinability and formability.

One of the most notable properties of this alloy is its high strength, especially its ability to retain mechanical properties at moderate temperatures. However, its corrosion resistance is lower compared to pure aluminum or 6xxx series alloys, so it is often protected by coatings or surface treatments. In terms of coating capability, it performs well and responds effectively to anodizing and painting. Regarding vibration response, it provides sufficient fatigue resistance for structural applications.

In terms of machinability, 2017A T42 performs very well and produces clean surfaces during machining processes. Its bending capability is better than harder tempers like T6, making it suitable for complex forming operations. However, its weldability is limited due to the risk of cracking during fusion welding, so mechanical fastening methods are usually preferred.

Compared to alloys such as 2024-T3, 6061-T6, and 7075-T6, 2017A T42 offers distinct advantages. It has similar strength to 2024-T3 but generally provides better machinability. Compared to 6061-T6, it has higher strength, while 6061 offers better corrosion resistance and weldability. Although 7075-T6 has much higher strength, 2017A provides a better balance of ductility and machinability.

This alloy is commonly used in aerospace components, automotive parts, machinery elements, fasteners, and load-bearing structural parts. It is especially preferred where high strength and good machinability are required together. Overall, 2017A T42 is an important engineering alloy offering a balanced combination of performance and manufacturability.

MATERIAL COMPOSITION STANDARDS

2017A T42 can conform to the following standards:
• 2017A T42 Plate; ASTM B209, ISO AlCu4MgSi, UNS A92017, WNR 3.1325, DIN AlCuMg1, EN 485-2
• 2017A T42 Sheet; ASTM B209, ISO AlCu4MgSi, UNS A92017, WNR 3.1325, DIN AlCuMg1, EN 485-2
• 2017A T42 Cold Drawn Round Bar; AMS QQ-A-225/5, ASTM B211, UNS A92017, ASTM B565, ASTM B316, WNR 3.1325, DIN AlCuMg1, BS EN 2116:2009
• 2017A T42 Cold Drawn Bar; AMS QQ-A-225/5, ASTM B211, UNS A92017, ASTM B565, ASTM B316, WNR 3.1325, DIN AlCuMg1, BS EN 2116:2009
• 2017A T42 Cold Drawn Wire; AMS QQ-A-225/5, ASTM B211, UNS A92017, ASTM B565, ASTM B316, WNR 3.1325, DIN AlCuMg1, BS EN 2116:2009
 

Characteristic Properties of 2017A T42:

• Strength: High
• Machinability: Very Good
• Weldability: Medium (Filler welding and brazing are preferred)
• Formability: Very Good
• Corrosion Resistance: Moderate (Improved with coating)
• Heat Treatable: Yes
   

Common Applications of 2017A T42:

Used as structural material in construction and transportation industries,
In the aerospace and aviation sector,
In rivets and high-strength structures.
 

STOCK
We supply 2017A T42 in plate/sheet, sheet, rod/bar, and pipe/profile forms.

• Plate / Sheet
• Sheet
• Rod / Bar
• Pipe / Profile

BS EN 2116:2009