Technology
We have a full metallurgical laboratory to provide specialized inspections or metallurgical reviews as needed.
Notes from the Metallurgy Desk
American Handforge would like to pass on some technical data gleaned from metallurgical issues and subjects we feel need to be emphasized for users and buyers of aluminum. These are a few of the issues we've experienced and tried to explain over the years — written so a non-technical person can garner a little bit of information about aluminum technology, and learn some of the "hidden" insights and jargon metallurgists often use.
If there's an additional topic not covered here that interests you, you're encouraged to send in your questions. The listing below isn't complete, and is an ongoing effort.
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Alloys
The naming system behind the 1XXX–9XXX aluminum alloy series, and what each is good for.
Learn moreExfoliation
How overaging to a –T76 temper solved a decades-long corrosion problem in 7XXX alloys.
Learn moreGhosts
The faint carry-through pattern that sometimes lingers in an ingot's grain structure.
Learn moreGrain
Why grain direction and orientation matter almost as much as alloy composition itself.
Learn moreRecrystallization
What causes an unplanned second crystallization — usually forging too cold.
Learn moreStress Relieving
How compression stress relieving removes residual stress locked in during quenching.
Learn moreStress Corrosion
The three conditions that must all exist together for stress corrosion cracking to occur.
Learn moreTemper-Temper
The basic rules behind F, O, H, W, and T temper designations — and how to lose your temper.
Learn moreTest Indicators
Why hardness is a useful indicator test, but tensile testing is always the final word.
Learn moreFull Metallurgical Laboratory
American Handforge provides the latest in testing for mechanical properties, fracture toughness, grain size, macro evaluation, hardness, and conductivity measurements. We have a full metallurgical laboratory to provide specialized inspections or metallurgical reviews as needed.
Our complete inspection facilities, along with our partner, perform ultrasonic inspections that round out the specialized services American Handforge can provide for you.
American Handforge Metallurgical Lab
Talk to Our Engineers
It's important, when designing a new product or redesigning an existing one, that you select the process that will deliver the right material properties for you. Submit your special or custom requirements — either as a drawing, sketch, or description — to our engineers, and we'll help you find the right solution.
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