Simulation of Degradation Behavior of 6061-T6 Aluminum Alloy after Two-Step Aging Treatment
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Abstract
This research investigates the thermal degradation behavior of the mechanical properties of 6061-T6 aluminum alloy subjected to a two-step artificial aging treatment. The experimental procedure initiated with solution heat treatment at 530 °C for 2 hours, followed by rapid water quenching. The specimens were then subjected to the first-step aging at 175 °C for 8 hours. Subsequently, the second-step aging (Double Age) parameters were designated as the independent variables, comprising five temperature levels (100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 °C) and five duration intervals (8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 hours). Degradation kinetics and atomic diffusion rates were evaluated using the Arrhenius equation coupled with precipitate size calculations. Uniaxial tensile tests were performed in accordance with the ASTM E8 standard, and the resulting data were evaluated using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Visual inspection of the fractured specimens revealed that ductile fracture occurred across all experimental conditions, with the percentage of elongation exceeding 10%. Mechanical testing results indicated that within the lower temperature regime (100 °C–150 °C), the yield strength exhibited a continuous upward trend over time. Conversely, within the elevated temperature regime (250 °C–300 °C), a severe degradation of mechanical properties was observed due to the over-aging effect. The mathematical model and behavior simulation developed based on diffusion kinetics demonstrated high predictability and precision in forecasting the declining trend of yield strength as a function of both time and temperature. Consequently, this model serves as an effective tool for structural health monitoring and service life assessment to ensure the safety of 6061-T6 aluminum components exposed to continuous high-temperature environments.
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