Comprehensive Comparison of Aluminum Alloy 1350 vs. 1370

1. Introduction

Aluminum alloys in the 1xxx series, notably 1350 and 1370, are highly esteemed for their exceptional purity, typically exceeding 99%, which imparts outstanding electrical and thermal conductivity. These alloys are indispensable in applications where high conductivity, excellent formability, and superior corrosion resistance are critical. While both alloys share numerous similarities, subtle differences in their compositions and properties can significantly influence their suitability for specific industrial uses. This detailed comparison explores these aspects, providing clarity on which alloy best fits various application needs.

2. Overview of Aluminum Alloys 1350 and 1370

Sources:

• MatWeb – Aluminum 1350
• MatWeb – Aluminum 1370
• AZoM – Aluminum Alloys

3. Detailed Comparison

A. Physical Properties

Density:

• 1350: Approximately 2.705 g/cm³ (0.09772 lb/in³)
• 1370: Approximately 2.70 g/cm³ (0.0975 lb/in³)

Melting Point:

• 1350: 640–660°C (1,184–1,220°F)
• 1370: 646.1–657.2°C (1,195–1,215°F)

Validation: Both alloys exhibit densities consistent with high-purity aluminum, as corroborated by sources like MatWeb and manufacturer datasheets from leading aluminum producers such as Kaiser Aluminum and Alcoa. The melting ranges align with data from AZoM and MatWeb, reflecting the minimal alloying elements that slightly influence the melting points.

B. Mechanical Properties

Hardness (Brinell):

• 1350: Approximately 23 HB
• 1370: Not typically specified; however, given the similarity in composition, it is expected to be in the same range.

Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS):

• 1350:
  • 95.0 – 115.0 MPa (13,800 – 16,700 psi) for sheet and plate
  • 95.0 – 115.0 MPa (13,800 – 16,700 psi) for redraw rod
  • 95.0 – 115.0 MPa (13,800 – 16,700 psi) @ Thickness ≤ 9.50 mm
  • 95.0 – 115.0 MPa (13,800 – 16,700 psi) @ Thickness ≤ 0.374 in (Wire)
• 1370:
  • 95.0 – 115.0 MPa (13,800 – 16,700 psi) Ultimate Tensile Strength

Yield Strength:

• 1350: 27.6 MPa (4,000 psi)
• 1370: 28.0 MPa (4,060 psi)

Elongation at Break:

• 1350:
  • 15 – 28% for sheet and plate
  • ≥ 23% for wire in 10 inches
• 1370: 28%

Modulus of Elasticity:

• 1350: 68.9 GPa (10,000 ksi)
• 1370: 68.9 GPa (9,990 ksi)

Poisson’s Ratio:

• Both Alloys: 0.33

Machinability:

• 1350: 10% on a 0-100 scale for aluminum alloys
• 1370: Not typically specified, but expected to be similar due to high purity

Shear Modulus:

• 1350: 26.0 GPa (3,770 ksi)
• 1370: Not typically specified; however, inferred to be similar

Shear Strength:

• 1350: 55.2 MPa (8,000 psi)
• 1370: Not typically specified; likely comparable

Validation: Mechanical properties for both alloys are consistent with data from MatWeb and AZoM. The updated ranges provided for Alloy 1350 reflect its various forms and processing conditions, while Alloy 1370, with slightly higher purity, maintains similar mechanical strength characteristics. It’s important to note that the updated Ultimate Tensile Strength (95-115 MPa) for both alloys represents a higher strength range, which may be specific to certain temper conditions or manufacturing processes employed by specific manufacturers like Elka Mehr Kimiya.

C. Electrical Properties

Electrical Resistivity:

• 1350: 0.00000283 Ω·cm @ 20.0°C (68.0°F)
• 1370: 0.00000280 Ω·cm @ 20.0°C (68.0°F)

Electrical Conductivity:

• 1350: Approximately 61% IACS (International Annealed Copper Standard)
• 1370: Approximately 62% IACS

Validation: These values are corroborated by MatWeb and manufacturer datasheets, indicating that both alloys offer exceptional electrical conductivity, with Alloy 1370 having a marginally higher conductivity due to its increased aluminum purity.

D. Thermal Properties

Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE), Linear:

• 1350:
  • 21.8 µm/m-°C @ -50.0 – 20.0°C (12.1 µin/in-°F @ -58.0 – 68.0°F)
  • 23.8 µm/m-°C @ 20.0 – 100°C (13.2 µin/in-°F @ 68.0 – 212°F)
  • 24.5 µm/m-°C @ 20.0 – 200°C (13.6 µin/in-°F @ 68.0 – 392°F)
  • 25.5 µm/m-°C @ 20.0 – 300°C (14.2 µin/in-°F @ 68.0 – 572°F)
• 1370:
  • 23.8 µm/m-°C @ 20.0 – 100°C (13.2 µin/in-°F @ 68.0 – 212°F)

Specific Heat Capacity:

• Both Alloys: 0.900 J/g-°C (0.215 BTU/lb-°F)

Thermal Conductivity:

• 1350: 234.2 W/m-K (1,625 BTU-in/hr-ft²-°F) @ 77°F
• 1370: 234 W/m-K (1,620 BTU-in/hr-ft²-°F)

Heat of Fusion:

• 1350: 390 J/g (168 BTU/lb)
• 1370: Not typically specified; inferred to be similar

Melting Point:

• 1350:
  • 646.1 – 657.2°C (1,195 – 1,215°F) Solidus to Liquidus
• 1370:
  • 646.1 – 657.2°C (1,195 – 1,215°F) Solidus to Liquidus

Validation: Thermal properties are validated through multiple sources, including MatWeb and engineering handbooks. The CTE values reflect the predictable thermal expansion behavior of high-purity aluminum alloys, crucial for applications involving temperature fluctuations. Thermal conductivity values confirm both alloys’ suitability for thermal management applications.

E. Processing Properties

Annealing Temperature:

• Both Alloys: 343°C (650°F)

Validation: Annealing parameters are consistent with industry standards as detailed in MatWeb and manufacturer datasheets. Annealing is essential for restoring ductility and reducing hardness, facilitating processes like rolling, forming, and wire drawing.

F. Chemical Composition

Validation: Chemical compositions are cross-referenced with MatWeb and official manufacturer datasheets from leading aluminum producers. The slight variations in trace elements between Alloy 1350 and 1370 are consistent with their respective specifications, where Alloy 1370 maintains higher aluminum purity and stricter limits on other alloying elements to enhance conductivity and corrosion resistance.

4. Summary of Comparison

Similarities:

1. High Purity Aluminum:
   • Both alloys belong to the 1xxx series, characterized by high aluminum content (≥99.50% for 1350 and ≥99.70% for 1370). This high purity results in exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity, making them ideal for electrical and thermal management applications.
2. Excellent Conductivity:
   • With electrical resistivity around 0.0000028 Ω·cm and thermal conductivity exceeding 234 W/m-K, both alloys are superb conductors of electricity and heat. This makes them suitable for use in electrical wiring, busbars, heat sinks, and thermal exchangers.
3. Good Ductility and Formability:
   • Both alloys exhibit high elongation at break (15-28% for 1350 and ≥23% for 1370), facilitating ease in forming processes such as rolling, drawing, and machining. This ductility is particularly advantageous for manufacturing intricate shapes and fine wires.
4. Low Mechanical Strength:
   • As high-purity aluminum alloys, both 1350 and 1370 possess relatively low tensile and yield strengths compared to other aluminum series. This characteristic is beneficial where high strength is not a primary requirement but conductivity and formability are essential.
5. Corrosion Resistance:
   • The minimal presence of alloying elements in both alloys contributes to excellent corrosion resistance, making them suitable for environments where exposure to corrosive elements is expected.

Differences:

1. Aluminum Purity:
   • 1350: Contains ≥99.50% aluminum.
   • 1370: Contains a higher purity of ≥99.70% aluminum.
   • Impact: The increased aluminum purity in Alloy 1370 translates to marginally better electrical conductivity and enhanced corrosion resistance compared to Alloy 1350.
2. Chemical Composition:
   • Trace Elements: Alloy 1350 permits slightly higher concentrations of elements such as Boron (≤0.05% vs. ≤0.02%), Copper (≤0.05% vs. ≤0.02%), Iron (≤0.40% vs. ≤0.25%), and Zinc (≤0.05% vs. ≤0.04%) compared to Alloy 1370.
   • Impact: The higher allowable concentrations of certain alloying elements in Alloy 1350 may influence specific mechanical and thermal properties, though both remain high in purity. These differences can affect factors like machinability and specific mechanical responses under stress.
3. Mechanical Strength:
   • Alloy 1350: Exhibits a broader and higher range of ultimate tensile strength (95.0 – 115.0 MPa) depending on its form and processing conditions.
   • Alloy 1370: Typically reports an ultimate tensile strength within the same range (95.0 – 115.0 MPa), reflecting enhancements or specific tempering processes.
   • Impact: Alloy 1350 offers versatility in mechanical properties tailored to different forms (sheet, plate, wire), whereas Alloy 1370 maintains consistent tensile strength due to its stringent purity requirements.
4. Applications:
   • Alloy 1350: Beyond electrical applications, it is also extensively used in aerospace and automotive industries where formability and machinability are critical.
   • Alloy 1370: Primarily focused on electrical and thermal management applications, benefiting from its higher purity and conductivity.
   • Impact: While both alloys are suitable for electrical and thermal applications, Alloy 1350’s enhanced formability makes it more adaptable to diverse industrial uses, including sectors demanding precision and intricate shaping.

5. Elka Mehr Kimiya: Leaders in Aluminum Alloy Manufacturing

Elka Mehr Kimiya is a distinguished manufacturer based in the Northwest of Iran, specializing in the production of high-quality aluminum products. As a leading manufacturer of aluminum rods, alloys, conductors, ingots, and wire, Elka Mehr Kimiya is equipped with cutting-edge production machinery that ensures the highest standards of quality and precision in every product they deliver. Their commitment to excellence is evident through precision engineering and rigorous quality control processes, making them a trusted partner for industries seeking reliable and superior aluminum solutions.

Elka Mehr Kimiya produces aluminum wire rods from Alloy 1370, utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques to achieve optimal performance and consistency. Their expertise in handling high-purity aluminum alloys ensures that the wire rods meet stringent industry specifications, making them ideal for applications that demand superior electrical and thermal conductivity. By maintaining stringent quality control measures, Elka Mehr Kimiya guarantees that each aluminum wire rod not only meets but exceeds customer expectations, providing dependable performance in diverse industrial environments.

The company’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction positions Elka Mehr Kimiya at the forefront of the aluminum manufacturing sector in Iran. Their extensive product range caters to a diverse clientele spanning electrical, automotive, aerospace, and various other industries, ensuring that each client receives tailored solutions that align with their specific requirements. Through continuous investment in technology and a skilled workforce, Elka Mehr Kimiya consistently delivers top-quality aluminum alloys that support the advancement and efficiency of their clients’ operations.

6. Validated Data Sources

To ensure the highest level of accuracy in this comparison, the following reputable sources were meticulously consulted:

1. MatWeb Material Property Data: A comprehensive database offering detailed properties of various materials, including aluminum alloys. MatWeb
2. AZoM (The A to Z of Materials): A trusted resource for material properties, applications, and industry news. AZoM
3. Engineering Toolbox: Provides standard engineering data, including physical and mechanical properties of materials. Engineering Toolbox
4. Manufacturer Datasheets:
   • Kaiser Aluminum: Leading producer of high-purity aluminum alloys, offering detailed specifications. Kaiser Aluminum
   • Alcoa: Renowned aluminum manufacturer with extensive datasheets on various aluminum alloys. Alcoa
5. Engineering Handbooks: Standard references for material properties and engineering principles.

Note: While multiple sources were cross-referenced to ensure data accuracy, slight variations can occur due to proprietary formulations and specific manufacturing processes. For critical applications, consulting the specific manufacturer’s datasheet or conducting material testing is recommended.

7. Conclusion

Both Aluminum Alloy 1350 and 1370 are exemplary high-purity aluminum variants within the 1xxx series, offering unparalleled electrical and thermal conductivity, excellent formability, and superior corrosion resistance. The choice between the two hinges on specific application requirements and desired material properties.

• Choose Aluminum Alloy 1370 when:
  • Higher Electrical Conductivity: The application demands the utmost in electrical performance, benefiting from the slightly higher purity and conductivity.
  • Enhanced Corrosion Resistance: Environments prone to corrosion necessitate the minimal presence of alloying elements, ensuring longevity and reliability.
  • Consistency in Mechanical Properties: Applications requiring uniform tensile strength and performance across various forms.
• Choose Aluminum Alloy 1350 when:
  • Versatile Mechanical Properties: The broader range of tensile strengths (95.0 – 115.0 MPa) accommodates diverse forms and processing conditions.
  • Formability and Machinability: Sectors like aerospace and automotive benefit from the alloy’s superior formability and ease of machining.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Slightly lower purity may offer cost benefits without significantly compromising electrical and thermal performance for certain applications.

In essence, Aluminum Alloy 1370 is ideal for applications where marginal gains in electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance are crucial, while 1350 offers greater flexibility and versatility for a broader range of industrial uses without substantial sacrifices in performance.

8. Why Choose Elka Mehr Kimiya for Your Aluminum Alloy Needs?

When selecting a supplier for high-purity aluminum alloys, partnering with a manufacturer that embodies quality, reliability, and innovation is paramount. Elka Mehr Kimiya not only meets but exceeds these criteria, making them the preferred choice for industries across the Northwest of Iran and beyond. Their extensive product range, including Aluminum Alloy 1370 wire rods, combined with their dedication to precision engineering and rigorous quality control, ensures that customers receive products that deliver exceptional performance and longevity.

By choosing Elka Mehr Kimiya, you are investing in excellence and reliability, backed by a team committed to advancing the standards of aluminum alloy manufacturing. Whether your application demands the highest electrical conductivity, superior formability, or robust thermal management capabilities, Elka Mehr Kimiya provides solutions that cater to your specific needs with unparalleled quality and efficiency.