optimization of the aging regime of al-based alloys

Successful simulation of problems and phenomena related to the changes of the alloys composition is possible by applying simplex plans. The concentration (simplex) triangle application for the design of the optimal regime of Al-5wt%Cu-Pb-Bi alloy aging process is presented in this paper. The iso-lines of the given alloy’s mechanical properties in temperature-aging time coordinates were obtained by applying the mathematical models based of the given aging regimes, and the obtained results of changed properties. Regression polynomial of the fourth degree was used as the mathematical model, whereas the effect of the aging regime has been observed through the changes of tensile strength and contraction. Based on the obtained results, we have come to the conclusion that the simplex lattice method can be successfully applied to a great number of heat treatment aspects when with the increase of the temperature the duration time must be reduced, and vice versa (aging, annealing, homogenizing, etc.).