Aluminum 1100-H14
Introduction to Aluminum 1100-H14
Aluminum 1100-H14 is a commercially pure aluminum alloy (99.0%+ aluminum) with excellent corrosion resistance, high thermal and electrical conductivity, and superior workability. The H14 temper indicates the alloy has been strain-hardened to a moderate strength level, providing improved stiffness while maintaining good formability.
Aluminum 1100-H14 is often used in CNC machining for non-structural parts, electrical enclosures, heat exchanger fins, and chemical handling equipment where corrosion resistance and conductivity are more critical than mechanical strength.
Chemical, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Aluminum 1100-H14
Chemical Composition (Typical)
Element | Composition Range (wt.%) | Key Role |
|---|---|---|
Aluminum (Al) | ≥99.0 | Base element for conductivity and corrosion resistance |
Copper (Cu) | 0.05–0.20 | Increases strength slightly while reducing corrosion resistance |
Iron (Fe) | ≤0.35 | Residual element |
Silicon (Si) | ≤0.45 | Residual element |
Zinc (Zn) | ≤0.10 | Residual element |
Manganese (Mn) | ≤0.05 | Grain refinement |
Others | ≤0.15 (total) | Combined residuals |
Physical Properties
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard/Condition |
|---|---|---|
Density | 2.71 g/cm³ | ASTM B311 |
Melting Range | 643–657°C | ASTM E299 |
Thermal Conductivity | 222 W/m·K at 25°C | ASTM E1952 |
Electrical Conductivity | 61% IACS at 20°C | ASTM B193 |
Coefficient of Expansion | 23.6 µm/m·°C | ASTM E228 |
Specific Heat Capacity | 900 J/kg·K | ASTM E1269 |
Elastic Modulus | 69 GPa | ASTM E111 |
Mechanical Properties (H14 Temper)
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
Tensile Strength | 110–150 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Yield Strength (0.2%) | 95–125 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Elongation | ≥10% | ASTM E8/E8M |
Hardness | 35–45 HB | ASTM E10 |
Fatigue Strength | 45 MPa | ASTM E466 |
Impact Resistance | Excellent | ASTM E23 |
Key Characteristics of Aluminum 1100-H14
Excellent Electrical and Thermal Conductivity (ASTM B193): Aluminum 1100-H14 achieves 61% IACS electrical conductivity and 222 W/m·K thermal conductivity, making it an ideal choice for bus bars, heat exchangers, and electrical housings.
Superior Corrosion Resistance in Neutral and Mildly Acidic Environments: Performs exceptionally in food-grade, architectural, and industrial environments with minimal risk of pitting or intergranular corrosion.
High Workability with Moderate Strength (SAE J452 Formability Index 9/10): Easily roll-formed, spun, and drawn, yet H14 temper ensures improved stiffness over fully annealed (O temper) aluminum.
Weldable with Minimal Post-Weld Degradation: Compatible with MIG/TIG welding processes using 1100 or 4045 filler; retains corrosion resistance in the heat-affected zone.
Non-Heat Treatable but Cold Work Hardened: Mechanical strength is developed through strain hardening (H temper), ensuring dimensional stability and improved machinability over soft temper alloys.
CNC Machining Challenges and Solutions for Aluminum 1100-H14
Machining Challenges
Very Soft Material: May deform or burr under aggressive machining conditions.
Low Strength → Risk of Poor Surface Finish: Requires sharp tooling and minimal vibration to achieve fine tolerances.
Tool Adhesion from High Thermal Conductivity: This can lead to a built-up edge without proper coatings.
Optimized Machining Strategies
Tool Selection
Parameter | Recommendation | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
Tool Material | DLC- or polished carbide tools | Prevents adhesion and reduces edge build-up |
Geometry | Positive rake, polished rake face | Enhances surface finish and chip flow |
Cutting Speed | 300–600 m/min | Enables clean cutting without workpiece heating |
Feed Rate | 0.10–0.25 mm/rev | Maintains control for small or thin-walled parts |
Coolant | Light mist or air blast | Prevents gumming while maintaining clean surfaces |
Aluminum 1100-H14 Cutting Parameters (ISO 513 Compliance)
Operation | Speed (m/min) | Feed (mm/rev) | Depth of Cut (mm) | Coolant Pressure (bar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Roughing | 300–450 | 0.20–0.25 | 2.0–3.5 | 25–35 (Mist) |
Finishing | 450–600 | 0.05–0.10 | 0.2–1.0 | 30–50 (Mist/Air blast) |
Surface Treatment for Aluminum 1100-H14 CNC Parts
Anodizing: Type II clear anodizing enhances corrosion resistance and offers a uniform surface appearance.
Powder Coating: Adds a thick, durable finish for decorative or protective purposes, with 60–100 µm film thickness.
Electropolishing: Removes micro-burrs and enhances brightness on electrical panels or reflective surfaces.
Passivation: Cleans the surface to improve coating adhesion and corrosion resistance.
Brushing: Provides a uniform matte finish ideal for architectural and display parts.
Alodine Coating: Improves electrical conductivity while protecting against corrosion—MIL-DTL-5541 compliant.
UV Coating: Adds UV resistance and clear finish protection for lighting housings or architectural applications.
Lacquer Coating: Enhances surface gloss and aesthetic durability.
Industry Applications of Aluminum 1100-H14
Electrical and Power: Bus bars, enclosures, grounding plates, and wiring components that benefit from high conductivity.
Food and Beverage Processing: CNC-machined tanks, panels, and cleanroom components with FDA-safe corrosion resistance.
Architectural and Decorative: Trim, nameplates, signage, and appliance fronts requiring clean anodized finishes.
HVAC and Ventilation: Finned tubes, thermal panels, and duct elements demanding lightweight and conductivity.
Consumer Products: Lightweight laptop enclosures, lighting parts, and home appliance frames.
FAQs
How does Aluminum 1100-H14 compare to 6061 and 3003 in strength and conductivity?
What are the typical surface finishes achievable with CNC machined 1100-H14?
Can Aluminum 1100-H14 be anodized for both protection and aesthetics?
Is 1100-H14 suitable for welding and post-machining forming operations?
What are the machining tolerances achievable on thin-walled 1100-H14 parts?
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