Key Highlights
- 4047 aluminum alloy is known for its high silicon content, which enhances its fluidity and makes it an excellent filler alloy for brazing.
- This alloy exhibits exceptional fluidity at elevated temperatures, making it well-suited for automotive industry applications, especially for engine blocks and other components exposed to heat.
- 4047 aluminum alloy boasts good corrosion resistance, ensuring its longevity and reliability in diverse environments.
- Its narrow freezing range reduces hot cracking during welding, leading to stronger and more durable welds.
- Beyond automotive, this versatile alloy finds applications in various industries due to its suitability as a filler metal, particularly for creating leak-tight joints.
What is 4047 Aluminum Alloy?
4047 aluminum alloy stands out as a remarkable aluminum alloy primarily recognized for its high silicon content, typically ranging between 11% and 13%. This notable silicon content sets it apart from other aluminum alloys, giving it exceptional fluidity at elevated temperatures.
Thanks to this characteristic, 4047 aluminum alloy is widely used as a filler alloy in brazing applications. The alloy’s ability to flow easily into tight spaces ensures strong and reliable joints in various manufacturing processes.
Understanding 4047 Aluminum Alloy
4047 aluminum alloy has emerged as a versatile material in a wide range of industries. It is celebrated for its robust combination of desirable properties, including excellent fluidity at high temperatures, good corrosion resistance, and a narrow freezing range, which minimizes hot cracking during welding.
These properties, combined with its relatively low melting point, contribute to its popularity in demanding applications where strength, durability, and precision are paramount.
Chemical Composition of 4047 Aluminum
4047 aluminum alloy’s properties stem from its balanced chemical composition, mainly silicon (Si) at 11.0% to 12.0%, affecting fluidity and melting point. Iron (Fe) is at 0.8% max, copper (Cu) at 0.3% max, zinc (Zn) at 0.2% max, manganese (Mn) at 0.15% max, and magnesium (Mg) at 0.1% max. These controlled additions enhance the alloy’s strength, corrosion resistance, and weldability.
The rest is aluminum (Al), ensuring aluminum alloys are lightweight and versatile. Each element is crucial for the final properties, making 4047 suitable for various applications.
|
Element |
Weight % |
|---|---|
|
Aluminum (Al) |
Balance |
|
Silicon (Si) |
11.0-13.0% |
|
Iron (Fe) |
≤0.8% |
|
Copper (Cu) |
≤0.3% |
|
Manganese (Mn) |
≤0.15% |
|
Magnesium (Mg) |
≤0.1% |
|
Zinc (Zn) |
≤0.2% |
|
Others (each) |
≤0.05% |
|
Others (total) |
≤0.15% |
Physical and Mechanical Properties
4047 aluminum alloy has a low melting point due to its high silicon content, making it easier to work with in welding and brazing.
Its narrow freezing range reduces hot cracking, leading to stronger, more reliable welds and improved structural integrity. Additionally, 4047 exhibits excellent fluidity when molten, ideal for filling intricate shapes and creating leak-tight joints.
|
Property |
Value |
|---|---|
|
Density |
~2.66 g/cm³ |
|
Melting Range |
~577-582°C (1,071-1,080°F) |
|
Tensile Strength |
~180-190 MPa (welded/brazed joint, varies by base alloy) |
|
Thermal Conductivity |
~160-170 W/m·K |
|
Electrical Conductivity |
~41-43% IACS |
|
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion |
~21.6 × 10⁻⁶ /°C |
Applications of 4047 Aluminum Alloy
The unique qualities of the 4047 aluminum alloy have made it a favorite choice in many industries! One key use is as a filler alloy in brazing. This handy process helps join similar or different metals together thanks to its low melting point and amazing flow characteristics.
In the automotive world, the 4047 aluminum alloy really shines, especially in producing engine blocks and other essential components that regularly face high temperatures. Its fantastic ability to handle elevated temperatures while maintaining integrity makes it a perfect fit for these challenging tasks. But that’s not all! Beyond being an excellent filler alloy, 4047 aluminum works wonders as a cladding alloy. It wraps around base metals, offering a protective shield that boosts their resistance to corrosion and overall toughness. This is especially valuable in marine and industrial settings where equipment faces harsh conditions.
Benefits and Limitations of 4047 Aluminum
Benefits of 4047 Aluminum
|
Advantage |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Excellent weldability |
4047 is a go-to filler material for aluminum welding, especially when low shrinkage and cracking resistance are needed. |
|
High corrosion resistance |
Good performance in harsh environments due to higher silicon content. |
|
Low melting point |
It melts around 577°C, ideal for brazing and joining processes. |
|
Low shrinkage during solidification |
Excellent for casting and welding — reduces distortion and cracking. |
|
Good wear resistance |
Better wear properties than 4045 or 4045 due to higher silicon (~11-13%). |
|
Dimensional stability |
It is suitable for precision applications like automotive engine components and electronics. |
|
Non-heat-treatable |
It is easier to handle for specific fabrication processes (T6 aging not required). |
Limitations of 4047 Aluminum
|
Limitation |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Lower strength |
It is not designed for structural load-bearing use, and its relatively low mechanical strength. |
|
Non-heat-treatable |
While this simplifies processing, it limits post-fabrication strengthening. |
|
Limited forming ability |
Due to high silicon content, it’s more brittle than alloys like 6061 or 5052. |
|
Not ideal for machining |
Machinability is fair to moderate — silicon particles can cause tool wear. |
|
Not suitable for anodizing for a decorative finish |
Anodized surfaces may appear dull and gray due to high silicon content. |
Comparison 4047 Aluminum with Other Aluminum Alloys
The choice of a particular aluminum alloy depends significantly on the specific application and its requirements. While 4047 aluminum alloy is well-regarded for its properties, understanding how it compares to other commonly used alloys is crucial for making informed decisions.
Each aluminum alloy presents its strengths and weaknesses. Comparing 4047 with its counterparts, such as 4043, 5356, and 6061, provides a clearer picture of its suitability for specific tasks, ensuring optimal performance and durability.
4047 Vs. 4043 Vs. 5356 Vs. 6061 Aluminum
In the welding industry, particularly when working with aluminum, understanding the nuances of different filler metals is paramount. Choosing the correct alloy can make all the difference in weld quality and, ultimately, the integrity of the finished product. The table below emphasizes the key differences between 4047 aluminum and its counterparts:
|
Characteristic |
4047 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Primary Alloying |
Si (11-13%) |
Si (4.5-6.0%) |
Mg (4.5-5.5%) |
Mg, Si |
|
Tensile Strength (Weld/Base) |
~180-190 MPa |
~186-200 MPa |
~240-290 MPa |
~310 MPa (T6) |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
Good |
Good |
Excellent |
Very Good |
|
Fluidity |
Superior |
Excellent |
Good |
N/A (base alloy) |
|
Melting Point |
~577-582°C |
~573-632°C |
~591-635°C |
~582-652°C |
|
Best for |
Brazing, thin sections |
General welding |
5xxx, marine welds |
Welded with 4047/4043 |
|
Anodizing |
Poor (darkens) |
Poor (darkens) |
Good (bright) |
Good |
Each alloy caters to specific needs within the welding and manufacturing industries. 4047 shines as a filler metal for brazing and situations demanding high fluidity, while 4043 and 5356 are better suited for general-purpose aluminum welding. 6061 stands out as a versatile base metal requiring specific considerations during welding.
Choosing the Right Alloy: Is 4047 Aluminum Right for You?
Whether 4047 aluminum is the right fit for your project is about understanding your unique needs.
One of its standout features is its low melting point, which shines in applications like brazing or finely detailed castings that need exceptional flow characteristics. Suppose you’re working on specific repairs, especially in demanding environments like automotive engine blocks. In that case, you’ll appreciate how 4047 aluminum alloy stands up to hot cracking and boasts solid mechanical properties, making it a great choice!
However, if your project prioritizes high strength and structural integrity, you might want to explore other aluminum alloys, particularly those that serve as base metals. Take a moment to carefully consider the operating conditions, the essential mechanical properties, and any environmental factors that might be at play. This will help you make the best decision possible!
Using 4047 can be a great choice when brazing heat exchangers, welding thin 6000 alloys, or when you want to minimize heat distortion. However, it’s a good idea to avoid 4047 if you’re working with 5000 alloys- this is where 5356 shines! If you need marine corrosion resistance or plan to anodize your welds, it’s best to consider other options as well.
Conclusion
4047 Aluminum, a versatile alloy, offers a unique combination of properties suitable for various applications. Understanding its chemical composition, physical and mechanical properties, and comparisons with other alloys is crucial in decision-making. While it presents benefits, limitations, and specific use cases, evaluating if 4047 Aluminum is the right choice for your project is key. Working with this alloy can offer advantages, especially in high-temperature environments. For expert guidance on utilizing 4047 Aluminum effectively or obtaining quotes, connect with professionals in the industry. Make informed decisions to optimize your projects with the right aluminum alloy.
Why Choose Linsy Aluminum
As one of the leading aluminum brands and a top supplier in China, Linsy Aluminum emphasizes quality and reliability in all its products. Our advanced aluminum factory in China manufactures high-performance aluminum alloys that satisfy the toughest industry requirements. Dedicated to excellence, we provide precision, durability, and tailored options to accommodate your specific project needs, establishing us as a trusted partner for businesses globally searching for exceptional aluminum solutions. GET A QUOTE
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Work with Aluminum 4047?
Aluminum 4047 stands out for its high fluidity due to its silicon content. This makes it a preferred filler material for welding and brazing, especially when working with tight joints.
What are the Advantages of Working with 4047 Aluminum?
4047 aluminum excels in aluminum silicon brazing, particularly for leak-proof tight joints. It’s commonly used in applications like window frames and components requiring high-quality finishes.
Is 4047 aluminum suitable for high-temperature environments?
Yes, 4047 aluminum’s low melting point makes it suitable as a filler metal in high-temperature environments. Its low shrinkage also contributes to its use in applications like engine blocks.
