7075 aluminum achieves top-tier mechanical properties among aluminum alloys. This performance advantage is particularly pronounced after the T6 heat treatment (solution treatment + artificial aging).
7075-T6 boasts a tensile strength of 570 MPa and a yield strength of approximately 500 MPa. This significantly exceeds that of common aluminum alloys (e.g., 6061-T6, which has a tensile strength of approximately 310 MPa) and even approaches that of some mild steels (e.g., Q235 steel, which boasts a tensile strength of approximately 375 MPa). Crucially, 7075 aluminum has a density of only 2.81 g/cm³, less than one-third that of steel. This combination of high strength and low density significantly reduces structural weight.
7075-T6's Brinell hardness (HB) is approximately 150, significantly higher than 6061-T6's 95 HB. High hardness means it can withstand greater surface pressure and is less susceptible to deformation or wear. Therefore, 7075 aluminum is often used in the manufacture of precision mechanical parts, such as guide rails for CNC machine tools and pins for aviation connectors.
In dynamic load scenarios (such as aircraft takeoff and landing, and automotive shock absorbers), the material's fatigue performance is crucial. The fatigue strength of 7075 aluminum (10⁷ cycles) is approximately 160 MPa, and surface treatments such as anodizing and shot peening can further enhance its fatigue performance. This means it is resistant to fracture under long-term, repeated loads. For example, 7075 aluminum components used in helicopter rotors can withstand the vibration and shock of tens of thousands of takeoffs and landings, ensuring flight safety.
1. Transportation
Automotive Sector: 7075 aluminum alloy is frequently used in high-end vehicle chassis components (such as control arms), wheel hubs, and seat frames. On the one hand, its high strength ensures driving safety; on the other hand, its lightweight design reduces fuel consumption or extends the range of electric vehicles.
Bicycles and electric bikes: 7075 aluminum alloy is commonly used in the frames of professional mountain bikes and road bikes, as well as the uprights of high-end electric scooters. Many "ultralight frames" commonly used by cycling enthusiasts are made of 7075, capable of withstanding the bumps and impacts of off-road riding, and are 15%~20% lighter than ordinary aluminum alloy frames, making long rides effortless.
2. Electronic devices
Mobile phones and laptops: Although many mobile phone casings use 6-series aluminum alloy (lower cost), high-end models commonly use 7075 aluminum alloy for internal structural components (such as motherboard brackets and camera module frames).
Drones: 7075 aluminum alloy is frequently used in the arms and propeller brackets of consumer-grade drones. Drones have extremely high requirements for weight and strength: too much weight will affect flight time, while too much brittleness will easily cause damage during landing. 7075 aluminum alloy strikes a balance between these two aspects.
3. Sports equipment
Golf clubs: High-end golf club shafts are often made of 7075 aluminum alloy. When playing golf, the shaft needs to rebound quickly to hit the ball far, while also being strong enough to prevent breakage.
The high modulus of elasticity and strength of 7075 allows for a more powerful rebound and can withstand the enormous torque during a swing (professional players can withstand torques exceeding 100 N·m).
Skiing boards and skates: 7075 aluminum alloy is also commonly used in ski bindings and skate handles. When skiing, bindings need to securely hold the boots in place and also release quickly to protect the ankles in case of a fall. The high strength of 7075 ensures that bindings do not crack in low-temperature environments (ski resort temperatures are often below -10°C), and provides a more sensitive release response.
4. Industrial Tools
Hand tools: High-end wrenches, pliers jaws, and drill chucks commonly use 7075 aluminum alloy. These tools frequently come into contact with metal parts and may be subjected to impacts and torsion. The wear resistance and strength of 7075 aluminum alloy can extend the tool's lifespan—for example, a 7075 wrench has a lifespan 30% to 50% longer than a regular steel wrench and is less prone to rust.
Medical devices: Some medical device components (such as surgical instrument handles and wheelchair frames) also use 7075 aluminum alloy. Wheelchair frames need to support the user's weight while remaining portable (lightweight). 7075 material ensures the frame can bear the weight (typically over 150kg) while keeping the overall weight of the wheelchair under 10kg, making it easier for the elderly or caregivers to move it. Welcome to contact Haomei Aluminum, one of the 7075 aluminum sheet suppliers in China.
Original Source:https://www.aircraftaluminium.com/a/7075-aluminum-properties-and-uses.html
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