R. J. Marshall III, Nabertherm Inc., New Castle, DE

Summary: The continuing evolution in materials technology demands advances in furnace and process technology in order to keep pace. Particularly in the aerospace and automotive industries there is an ever increasing demand for lighter weight and higher strength materials. These goals could not be met were it not for continued improvements in materials and processes. This paper will give an insight into heat treatment of precipitation hardenable aluminum alloys and will discuss the latest concepts in furnace and process technology. This paper will also address the future growth of materials such as aluminum foams and their applications in the aerospace and automotive industries. Process technology is the basis for the future growth and development of light weight high strength materials.