Experimental Study on the Influence of Variation in Thickness and Solution Temperature on the T6 Heat Treatment Process on the Dimensional Stability of Al-6061 Harjo Seputro (a), Eko Surojo (a), Dody Ariawan (a), Triyono (a*)
a) Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universitas Sebelas Maret
Jl. Ir. Sutami No.36, Jebres, Kec. Jebres, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57126, Indonesia
*triyono74[at]staff.uns.ac.id
Abstract
Aluminum spare parts are widely used in various fields of manufacturing and industry such as automotive, medical, and aerospace. The final production stage involves heat treatment, controlled heating or cooling in the solid state to modify the materials microstructure and mechanical properties. However, heat treatment can generate residual stresses that lead to shape deformation and dimensional instability. If dimensional instability occurs, the finished manufactured material will be rejected. The manufacturing method regarding the dimensional stability of AA-6061. Specimen formation with thickness variations of 2, 4, and 6 mm, followed by T6 heat treatment with solution treatment temperature variations of 540 C, 550 C, and 560 C. Dimensional stability testing using the CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) method. From the above explanation, it is known that research on the effect of T6 heat treatment with variations in specimen thickness and solvent temperature on the dimensional stability of AA-6061 has not been widely conducted. This study aims to obtain the right parameters to produce optimal mechanical properties without experiencing damage to the material. At thickness variations of 2 mm, 4 mm, and 6 mm, In the thickness variations of 2 mm, 4 mm, and 6 mm, the thicker the specimen, the larger the area value. Specimens with a thickness of 6mm at a temperature of 560 C have a larger area value compared to specimens with a thickness of 2 mm and 4 mm. Therefore, the 6 mm thick specimen at 560 C has the highest dimensional instability. At a dissolution temperature of 560 C with a thickness of 6 mm, the dimensional instability is higher compared to specimens with dissolution temperatures of 540 C and 550 C. Uncontrolled parameters, especially variations in heating and cooling rates, generate residual stresses that cause dimensional instability.
