2024 aluminum square tube is a high-strength aerospace aluminum alloy (UNS A92024, EN AW-2024) primarily alloyed with copper. Linsy supplies 2024 aluminum square tube in O, T3, T4, T351, and T851 tempers, with a wide range of side lengths, wall thicknesses, and custom cutting lengths. The square cross-section provides uniform section modulus in both axes, making it ideal for structural frames and equipment housings. Every order includes an MTC report, and SGS third-party testing is available on request.
Product form: aluminum square tube / hollow square section
Common tempers: O / T3 / T4 / T351 / T851
Processing support: CNC machining / laser cutting / TIG & MIG welding / anodizing / polishing
Quality documents: MTC report with every order, SGS testing on request
2024 aluminum alloy (UNS A92024, EN AW-2024) is a copper-based, heat-treatable 2000 series aluminum alloy. Originally developed for aircraft structural applications, it is valued for its high tensile strength, excellent fatigue resistance, and good machinability. The alloy contains approximately 4.4% copper, 1.5% magnesium, and 0.6% manganese, which together enable precipitation hardening to achieve strength levels comparable to many steels at a fraction of the weight.
2024 is not recommended for applications requiring high corrosion resistance unless properly protected, as its copper content reduces natural oxide layer integrity. It is typically used in the T3, T4, T351, or T851 temper for structural tube applications, where strength and fatigue performance are the primary design drivers.
| Side Length (mm) | Wall Thickness (mm) | Length (mm) | Typical Tolerance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 – 200 | 1 – 15 | 1000 – 12000 (custom cutting available) | ASTM B221 / EN 755 |
Linsy can supply 2024 aluminum square tube in both standard and non-standard dimensions. If your project requires a specific side length, wall thickness, or length not listed above, please contact our technical team to confirm feasibility and lead time.
| Temper | Condition | Key Characteristics | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| O | Annealed | Soft, lowest strength, best formability | Forming before heat treatment |
| T3 | Solution heat-treated, cold-worked, and naturally aged | High strength, good fatigue resistance | Aircraft structural frames, equipment housings |
| T4 | Solution heat-treated and naturally aged | High strength, similar to T3 but without cold work | Structural components |
| T351 | T3 with stress relieved by stretching | Reduced residual stress, stable dimensions | Precision-machined structural parts |
| T851 | Solution heat-treated, artificially aged, stress relieved | High strength with improved dimensional stability | High-precision structural tube |
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.50 |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.50 |
| Copper (Cu) | 3.8 – 4.9 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.30 – 0.9 |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 1.2 – 1.8 |
| Chromium (Cr) | ≤ 0.10 |
| Zinc (Zn) | ≤ 0.25 |
| Titanium (Ti) | ≤ 0.15 |
| Others (each) | ≤ 0.05 |
| Others (total) | ≤ 0.15 |
| Aluminum (Al) | Balance (≥ 93.5%) |
Values are based on ASTM B221 / EN 573-3 standard specifications. SGS chemical composition test reports are available on request for orders requiring third-party verification.
| Property | 2024-O | 2024-T3 | 2024-T351 | 2024-T851 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength, Ultimate (KSI) | 27 | 70 | 67 | 75 |
| Tensile Strength, Yield (KSI) | 11 | 50 | 47 | 66 |
| Shear Strength (KSI) | 18 | 41 | 41 | 43 |
| Fatigue Strength (KSI) | 13 | 20 | 20 | 17 |
All values are typical room-temperature properties. Actual values may vary depending on section thickness, heat treatment batch, and testing method. For design-critical applications, request material test certificates with each order.
2024 aluminum square tube delivers tensile strength levels that can exceed many low-carbon steels while weighing approximately one-third as much. This makes it a preferred material for weight-sensitive structural designs in aerospace, defense, and high-performance engineering.
The T3 and T351 tempers of 2024 exhibit excellent fatigue performance, which is critical for components subjected to cyclic loading such as aircraft structural frames, wing support structures, and dynamic structural assemblies.
Unlike round tube, square tube provides equal section modulus in both the X and Y axes. This makes 2024 aluminum square tube particularly suitable for structural frames, columns, and bracing where loading direction may vary or is not predictable during design.
In the T3, T4, and T851 tempers, 2024 responds well to CNC machining, producing fine chip formation and good surface finish. It is considered one of the better machining aluminum alloys among the high-strength grades, though tool wear is higher than for 6061 due to its greater strength.
2024 has relatively poor corrosion resistance compared to 5000 and 6000 series alloys. In most exterior or humid environments, 2024 aluminum square tube should be protected by cladding (alclad 2024), anodizing, or paint systems. For tube applications in corrosive environments, consult our technical team about available surface protection options.
| Industry / Sector | Typical Applications | Why 2024 Square Tube Is Used |
|---|---|---|
| Aerospace & Aircraft | Structural frames, equipment mounting brackets, support trusses, interior structural components | High strength-to-weight ratio, uniform section modulus for multi-axis loading |
| Defense & Military | Equipment housings, structural chassis, support frames for optical and electronic systems | High strength, good machinability, flat surfaces for mounting |
| Motorsports & Performance Automotive | Chassis frames, roll cage structures, suspension mounting points | Lightweight with high yield strength, easy to fabricate joints |
| Industrial Machinery | High-load structural frames, robotic arm linkages, fixture bases | Good fatigue life under cyclic loading, flat surfaces for assembly |
| Scientific & Research Equipment | Test rig frames, optical mounting structures, precision instrument bases | Dimensional stability in T851 temper, flat reference surfaces |
Linsy supports a range of downstream processing services for 2024 aluminum square tube. The following capabilities are available depending on temper and project requirements:
Linsy is an ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 certified aluminum supplier. For every 2024 aluminum square tube order, the following quality documents are provided as standard:
Linsy Aluminum is a Shenzhen-based aluminum factory with more than 20 years of industry experience. We specialize in supplying a full range of aluminum alloys in multiple product forms, including 2024 aluminum square tube for aerospace, defense, and high-performance engineering applications.
Our advantages for 2024 aluminum square tube supply include:
What is 2024 aluminum square tube used for?
2024 aluminum square tube is primarily used in aerospace, defense, and high-performance structural applications where high strength-to-weight ratio and fatigue resistance are required. The square cross-section provides uniform section modulus in both axes, making it ideal for structural frames, equipment housings, and support trusses where loading direction may vary.
What tempers are available for 2024 aluminum square tube?
Linsy supplies 2024 aluminum square tube in O, T3, T4, T351, and T851 tempers. T3 and T351 are the most common for structural tube applications due to their high strength and fatigue performance.
What is the difference between square tube and round tube in structural applications?
Square tube provides equal section modulus in both the X and Y axes, making it more efficient for structural frames where loading direction is not always predictable. Round tube has uniform section modulus in all directions but is typically used for pressure applications and fluid flow. Square tube also offers flat surfaces that simplify joining, mounting, and assembly.
Can 2024 aluminum square tube be welded?
2024 has limited weldability and is prone to hot cracking during fusion welding. If fabrication requires joining, mechanical methods (bolting, riveting) are recommended. TIG welding with 2319 filler wire may be considered for repairs, but strength in the heat-affected zone will be reduced compared to the base material.
Does 2024 aluminum square tube come with an MTC report?
Yes. Every order from Linsy includes an MTC (Material Test Certificate) report documenting chemical composition and mechanical properties. SGS third-party testing is available on request at additional cost.
What sizes are available for 2024 aluminum square tube?
Linsy supplies 2024 aluminum square tube in a wide range of sizes. Typical stock and custom sizes cover side lengths from 10mm to 200mm with wall thicknesses from 1mm to 15mm. If you require a size outside this range, please contact our technical team to confirm feasibility.
How does 2024 aluminum square tube compare to 6061 square tube?
2024 offers significantly higher tensile and yield strength than 6061, making it better for highly loaded structural applications. However, 6061 has better corrosion resistance and weldability. For aerospace and fatigue-critical applications, 2024 is typically preferred; for general structural and welded assemblies, 6061 is often the more practical choice.
What is the typical lead time for custom 2024 aluminum square tube orders?
For stock specifications, Linsy can deliver quickly from inventory. For custom sizes, non-standard tempers, or processed parts, typical lead time is 10–60 days depending on alloy, dimensions, processing requirements, and order complexity.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
Linsy supports low-MOQ orders for custom sizes and non-stock alloys. Standard stock items may have different MOQ requirements. Please contact us with your specific requirements for confirmation.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept T/T, L/C, and other standard international payment methods. Payment terms can be discussed for established long-term cooperation.
Can I request a sample before placing a bulk order?
Yes, sample pieces or small trial orders are available. Sample costs and delivery terms will be quoted separately.
Does Linsy provide certificates for international shipments?
Yes, all necessary shipping and material documents are provided, including commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin (if required), and MTC report. SGS test reports are available on request.
Linsy Advantages
Linsy Aluminum is a leading supplier of aluminum processing products, serving diverse industries including aerospace, general engineering, automotive, marine, shipbuilding and other specialized industrial applications.
We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality and environmental responsibility, as demonstrated by our certifications: ISO 9001:2008, ISO 14001:2004 and SGS.