1892A. Development and Industrialization of Al-Li (Aluminum Lithium) at Cegedur Pechiney Rhenalu

Paper

Abstract

Over the last ten years, considerable financial means have been devoted to the definition of composition and tempers of those Aluminum-Lithium alloys liable to compete with existing conventional alloys. It is now generally acknowledged that new alloys have reached a compromise where properties are concerned. These are now very similar to those of classical alloys with an increase in stiffness and reduction in density of up to 10%. On the basis of the first very promising results, aluminum producers and aircraft makers expected a very rapid introduction of hundred percent aluminum lithium air frame structures. However, it was hardly realistic to think that aluminum lithium could take a significant share in the market much more rapidly than other material used in aeronautics. Whether for the Aluminum 7000 series, or for composites, roughly 10 years’ work is considered necessary for the new material to go from the laboratory stage to the factory stage and, again, 10 years from the factory to the airplane manufacturer. After intensive research, the principal aluminum producers are facing the problem of the industrialization of the Al-Li alloy. Today’s problem is no longer the delivery of samples or to prove the feasibility of the product but to produce ”just on time” the products for the most extensive industrial use possible. This presentation summarizes the current developments at Cegedur Pechiney Rhenalu and explains how they have progressed with Al-Li from the ”tailor-made” to the ”ready-to-wear” stage.