heat treating aluminum

[stinkinlincoln]

Anyone ever do it? Not a lot of info out there about it. Most of what I've heard makes it sound like a dangerous, complicated, liability filled subject. Any info, specific stories, or sources of info would be appreciated.

[tramper]

Try this site www.key-to-nonferrous.com
tramper

[BillC]

Anyone ever do it? Not a lot of info out there about it. Most of what I've heard makes it sound like a dangerous, complicated, liability filled subject. Any info, specific stories, or sources of info would be appreciated.

I can't imagine it is much of a big deal... Common heat treatable aluminums like 6061 are strengthened by precipitation hardening. A full heat treat process starts with solution heat treat at 990°F followed by quenching to uniformly dissolve all of the constituents into solid solution. The aluminum is then aged for a period of time at some lower temperature (around 320-350°F) to allow the precipitation of the strengthening constituents.

I've never done it, but it doesn't sound particularly challenging. What have you heard that makes it sound dangerous or complicated?

Regards,

[tramper]

I guess one thing that would make it dangrous is the temperature that is required, 850-1050 (solution) for cast and extruded pieces, 250-350 (percipation) 300-600 (annealing). Quenching would be another. Without the proper proctective gear and equiptment this should not be tried.

tramper