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What is Aluminium 2A12-T4?

CNC Machining

Aluminium 2A12-T4 is a lightweight, high-strength aluminium-copper-magnesium alloy with a natural silver-white appearance. It is useful for precision brackets, machine components and structural parts where strength relative to weight is important.

The T4 temper means the material has been solution heat-treated and naturally aged. It offers a balance of strength and ductility for mechanically fastened components, with performance depending on the supplied stock and part design.

Custom parts are produced using CNC milling or turning, leaving fine tooling marks on as-machined surfaces. Protective finishes, such as anodising or painting, can be specified where available to improve corrosion resistance. The finish should be selected for the intended environment.

Material

Aluminium 2A12-T4

Description

Strengths

High strength relative to weight, good machinability and a useful balance of strength and ductility.

Weaknesses

Limited corrosion resistance and poor conventional fusion weldability. Protective finishes may be needed, and elevated temperatures can affect properties.

Colour & Finishes

Silver White

Mechanical properties

Ultimate tensile strength

425–470 MPa

Yield strength

275–325 MPa

Modulus of elasticity

68–71 GPa

Elongation at break

10–12%

Physical properties

Density

2.78 g/cm³

Hardness

105–120 HB

Corrosion resistance

Limited

Magnetism

Non-magnetic

UK equivalent

2024 (approx.)

Thermal properties

Maximum service temperature

150°C

Thermal expansion coefficient

22.9 × 10⁻⁶ /°C

Thermal conductivity

117.6 W/(m·°C)

Electrical properties

Electrical resistivity

4.8 µΩ·cm

Post treatments

Anodising compatibility

Suitable

Weldability

Low

Common applications

Precision brackets

Machine parts

Structural components

Aerospace components

Values shown are typical supplier figures for Aluminium 2A12-T4 and may vary with stock condition. Please confirm critical properties before production.

Frequently asked questions

What is aluminium 2A12-T4?

2A12-T4 is a high-strength aluminium-copper-magnesium alloy in the naturally aged T4 condition. It is used for precision brackets, machine parts and structural components where strength relative to weight matters.

What does the T4 temper mean?

T4 means the alloy has been solution heat-treated and naturally aged. This gives a useful balance of strength and ductility, which suits mechanically fastened parts.

Is 2A12-T4 good for CNC machining?

Yes. It machines well and holds precise features. Because corrosion resistance is limited compared with 6000-series alloys, a protective finish such as anodising or painting is often specified.

Can 2A12-T4 be welded?

Conventional fusion welding is generally poor for this alloy. Mechanical fastening or other joining methods are usually preferred. Please confirm the joining method at the quoting stage.