Selecting forged aluminum for automotive applications

Book · Sun Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1984

OSTI ID:5899017

Holtz, M A; Davis, J; Crawford, D

With the current and future efforts to downsize automobiles and reduce their weight, strong lightweight materials, in various product forms, are being substituted for many traditionally ferrous components. One of the substitute materials is aluminum, which although itself is not new to automobiles is finding novel applications as forgings in critical chassis and suspension areas. The 1984 Corvette provides an excellent example of how the use of forged aluminum can reduce unsprung and overall weight as well as improve performance without compromising the integrity of the vehicle. Using aluminum as forgings permits taking maximum advantage of its high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent ductility and toughness, and good corrosion resistance. This paper discusses the various considerations to be entertained when looking at aluminum forgings for automotive applications and the benefits of planning for these lightweight parts early in the design phase.

• OSTI ID: 5899017
• Report Number(s): TP-840124
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS
330600* -- Advanced Propulsion Systems-- Vehicle Design Factors
36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
360101 -- Metals & Alloys-- Preparation & Fabrication
360103 -- Metals & Alloys-- Mechanical Properties
360105 -- Metals & Alloys-- Corrosion & Erosion
ALLOYS
ALUMINIUM ALLOYS
AUTOMOBILES
CORROSION RESISTANCE
DESIGN
DUCTILITY
FABRICATION
FORGING
MATERIAL SUBSTITUTION
MATERIALS TESTING
MATERIALS WORKING
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
PERFORMANCE
SHEAR PROPERTIES
TENSILE PROPERTIES
TESTING
USES
VEHICLES
WEIGHT