Effect of cryogenic treatment on microstructure and mechanical properties of 6061 aluminum alloy

doi:10.13251/j.issn.0254-6051.2025.05.027

Abstract

Abstract: A composite heat treatment process involving cryogenic quenching and oil bath aging was designed, in comparison to the conventional solution and aging treatment process. Through the comparative study of the two processes, the effect of microstructure evolution on the mechanical properties of the specimens was analyzed through the microstructure observation with scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. The standard tensile test results show that the tensile strength and elongation of the specimens treated with cryogenic treatment between solution treatment and aging increase by 3.86% and 18.61%, respectively, compared with those of the conventional solution treated and aged. It is concluded that the introduction of cryogenic treatment between solution and aging can significantly improve the mechanical properties of aluminum alloy.

Key words: cryogenic treatment:6061 aluminum alloy, microstructure evolution, mechanical properties

CLC Number:

Niu Xuemei, Jing Linwang, Huang Yao, Yan Xianguo, Chen Zhi. Effect of cryogenic treatment on microstructure and mechanical properties of 6061 aluminum alloy[J]. Heat Treatment of Metals, 2025, 50(5): 175-180.

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