Assessment of Hardness Based on Phase Diagrams

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the methodology and development of a general equation, in order to obtain a series of equations to assess the hardness of different Al-Cu-Zn alloys, based on their chemical composition. This methodology produces an assessment of hardness with a maximal deviation of 5%, in as-cast, homogenized and quenching alloys, for both alloys created in laboratories like commercials. This method entails the generation of linear equations by a linear regression method, obtained from a zone of the phase diagram, when the composition is changed from linear to planar form. Therefore, if the chemical composition of samples varies, the percentage of each phase will also vary, causing a change in mechanical properties in a linear manner. If the heat treatments are the same for all samples, then the changes in mechanical properties are proportional for each of them, maintaining the linear relationship in mechanical properties in accordance with chemical composition. This methodology is applicable for any ternary alloy along with its equilibrium diagram.