Thermal Ageing Effects on the Residual Fatigue Strength of AA2618-T6511 Aluminium Alloy

This work presents the results of an experimental investigation on the effects of thermal ageing over the residual fatigue strength of AA2618-T6511 aluminium alloy. Among others, this kind of light alloy finds practical applications in highly stressed engine components, such as pistons, that are typically subjected to both thermal and fatigue loads. Thermal cycles are responsible for ageing phenomena, that involve the precipitation of silicates, with a corresponding progressive damage of the microstructure and weakening of the mechanical characteristics of the material. Artificial ageing has been reproduced in laboratory by means of thermal cycles controlled in time and temperature. These variables have been correlated to the hardness values measured on the surface of specimens. Bending fatigue tests have been performed on a rotating machine in a temperature controlled environment. The experimental S-N diagram is finally presented, as a function of the tested temperature, in order to provide a design tool for the fatigue life estimation of AA2618 components.