Elevated Temperature Aluminum Alloys for Aerospace Applications

Highlights of a Lockheed-California Company inhouse application study and contractual alloy development program conducted by Lockheed for the Air Force Materials Laboratory (AFML) are presented. The potential benefits are based on advanced powder metallurgy aluminum alloys with high strength and high stiffness property goals that are competitive with titanium alloy. Applications for use at service temperatures up to 650°F are projected. The aluminum-iron-oxide dispersion hardened systems are currently being developed by the Aluminum Company of America (Alcoa) and the Pratt and Whitney Aircraft - Government Products Division (P&WA). The alloy development progress and potential application on a high speed advanced aircraft fighter are summarized. Key issues requiring attention in the elevated temperature aluminum alloy technology development are presented.