Engine block Alloys-Scandium?
Discussion
Why would it not be feasible to machine an Aluminum alloy engine with Scandium for significant strength/weight improvements?
What are alloy engine blocks machined from? 6061, 7075, and T-6 heat treatment?
Just curious. For those unfamiliar scandium in small amounts can be added to aluminum to greatly increase its strength. A Russian technology used in missiles from what I understand. I use the word "strength" loosely because engineers will have a fit with that term.
What are alloy engine blocks machined from? 6061, 7075, and T-6 heat treatment?
Just curious. For those unfamiliar scandium in small amounts can be added to aluminum to greatly increase its strength. A Russian technology used in missiles from what I understand. I use the word "strength" loosely because engineers will have a fit with that term.
I don't know too much about metalurgy but I'll have a go. I'm sure it would be feasible to use aluminium-scandium alloys but I think the cost would be too prohibitive for most automotive companies. Although it could be brilliant for diesel cylinder heads (very high cylinder pressures)
Generally you would use high silicon alloys like LM25 for sand or gravity die castings and lower silicon LM24 for high pressure castings.
You find that the limits on cylinder block design are not always material strength (although obviously some places like main bearings need lots of strength) but making sure you having consistent wall size allowing homogenous metal flow. So may only need a 1mm thick wall but have to have a 3mm wall to allow the flow. Non Porous castings are the holy grail.
Cast iron (especially Compacted Graphite Iron) if designed properly can do an excellent job. See the V6 diesel in 'S' type Jaguar.
Wonder who worked on that?
Generally you would use high silicon alloys like LM25 for sand or gravity die castings and lower silicon LM24 for high pressure castings.
You find that the limits on cylinder block design are not always material strength (although obviously some places like main bearings need lots of strength) but making sure you having consistent wall size allowing homogenous metal flow. So may only need a 1mm thick wall but have to have a 3mm wall to allow the flow. Non Porous castings are the holy grail.
Cast iron (especially Compacted Graphite Iron) if designed properly can do an excellent job. See the V6 diesel in 'S' type Jaguar.
Wonder who worked on that?Gassing Station | Engines & Drivetrain | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff