Effects of Different Solid Solution Temperatures on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of the AA7075 Alloy after T6 Heat Treatment

Abstract

In this study, the effect of solid solution temperature on microstructure and mechanical properties of the AA7075 alloy after T6 heat treatment was investigated. Following solid solution at five different temperatures for 2 hours, the AA7075 alloy was quenched and then artificially aged at 120°C for 24 hours. Hardness measurements, microstructure examinations (SEM+EDS, XRD) and tensile tests were carried out for the alloys. The results showed that the increased solid solution temperature led to formation of precipitates in the microstructures and thus caused higher hardness and tensile strength.