Effect of CeLa addition on the mechanical properties of Al–Cu–Mn–Mg–Fe alloy

Abstract

The rapid development of new energy automobiles leads to an increasing demand for high-strength lithium battery shell alloy. The microstructures, electrical conductivity and mechanical properties of CeLa-containing Al–Cu–Mn–Mg–Fe alloys were investigated with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction, Eddy Current conductivity tester, tensile testing and Erichsen cup testing. Experiment results indicate that Al₆(Mn, Fe) particles could be refined by CeLa alloying and AlCuCeLa phase nucleates and grew up at the surface of Al₆(Mn, Fe) particle. Major texture of the CeLa-containing alloys was different from that of the CeLa-free alloy. The electrical conductivity decreased with increase of the CeLa content. CeLa addition could greatly enhance the tensile strength of the alloy at temperatures ranging from –40°C to 300°C.

KEYWORDS:

• Al alloy
• CeLa alloying
• microstructure
• mechanical property

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Shanghai Excellent Technical Leader Project [grant number 15XD1524600].