Development of Al-Li 2050 and 2195 forgings at Weber Metals

To support aerospace industry Weber Metals has developed forging practices and optimized thermo-mechanical processing of two Al-Li alloys, AIRWARE 2195 and 2050.   Step forgings with thickness range of 1”-8” and 1”-6“ were produced in alloys 2050 T852 and 2195 T6 and T852, respectively. Several die forgings were also forged out of alloy 2195.  Mechanical properties of both alloys are superior to 7050 forgings when similar cross-sections are compared. Beyond higher strength and corrosion resistance, both alloys exhibit 4% lower density and 5% higher modulus, making it particularly attractive for replacement of legacy 7XXX alloys in aerospace applications. Alloy 2195 which traces its origin to the External Tank from the Space Shuttle days alloy has higher static properties when compared to alloy 2050. Even thou composition of 2195 is best suited for thin plate products (<~2.5in), current forging study explored much wider gauge range.  Presentation will highlight work to date and future plans on these two products.