An Influence of Ageing on the Structure, Corrosion Resistance and Hardness of High Aluminum ZnAl40Cu3 Alloy

Zn-Al-Cu alloys are used primarily because of their tribological properties as an alternative material for bronze, cast iron and aluminum alloy bearings and as a construction material. Particularly interesting are high aluminum zinc alloys. Monoeutectic zinc and aluminum alloys are characterized by the highest hardness, tensile strength and wear resistance of all of the zinc alloys. A significant problem with the use of the Zn-Al-Cu alloys is their insufficient resistance to electrochemical corrosion. Properties of Zn-Al-Cu alloys can be improved by heat treatment. The purpose of examination was to determine the effect of heat treatment (aging at various temperatures) on the microstructure and corrosion resistance of the ZnAl40Cu3 alloy. The scope of the examination included: structural examinations, determination of hardness using Brinell’s method and corrosion resistance examinations. Ageing at higher temperatures causes a creation of areas where is an eutectoid mixture. The study showed that ageing causes a decrease in hardness of ZnAl40Cu3 alloy. This decrease is even greater, when the temperature of ageing is lower. The studies have shown a significant influence of ageing on the corrosion resistance of the alloy ZnAl40Cu3. Maximum corrosion resistance were characterized by the sample after ageing at higher temperatures.