EN AW-2014 vs EN AW-2024: Both Al-Cu aerospace alloys — 2024 has better fatigue and damage tolerance
EN AW-2014 vs EN AW-2024
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
EN AW-2014
3.1255
High-strength Al-Cu alloy, heat-treatable to high strength levels. Good machinability in T6. Poor corrosion resistance (needs cladding or anodizing). Used for heavy-duty forgings, truck wheels, aircraft structures, and general high-strength structural applications. One of the oldest aerospace Al alloys.
EN AW-2024
3.1355
Classic high-strength aerospace aluminium alloy (Al-Cu-Mg). Excellent fatigue resistance — the standard choice for aircraft fuselage skins and wing tension members. Poor corrosion resistance and weldability. Often supplied with Alclad cladding for corrosion protection. In use since 1931.
| EN AW-2014 | EN AW-2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | 3.1255 | 3.1355 |
| Category | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Standard | EN 573-3 | EN 573-3 |
Chemical composition (wt%)
| Element | EN AW-2014 | EN AW-2024 | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Si | 0.5–0.9% | 0–0.5% | Partial |
| Mn | 0.4–1.2% | 0.3–0.9% | Partial |
| Cr | 0–0.1% | 0–0.1% | OK |
| Cu | 3.9–5% | 3.8–4.9% | Partial |
Mechanical properties
| Property | EN AW-2014 | EN AW-2024 | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| tensile_strength | 440–485 | 400–430 | MPa |
| yield_strength | 390–415 | 270–280 | MPa |
| elongation | 7–13 | ≥ 10 | % |
Compatibility Assessment
2014 has slightly higher UTS in T6 (460 vs 430 MPa) and better machinability. 2024 has superior fatigue life and damage tolerance, making it THE fuselage skin alloy. Both have poor corrosion resistance. Choose 2014 for forgings/heavy structures; 2024 for fatigue-critical sheet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is EN AW-2014 the same as EN AW-2024?
EN AW-2014 and EN AW-2024 have a 75% composition overlap. Both Al-Cu aerospace alloys — 2024 has better fatigue and damage tolerance
Can I replace EN AW-2014 with EN AW-2024?
In many cases, yes. The compositions overlap significantly (75%). However, always verify mechanical property requirements and heat treatment compatibility for your specific application.
What is the difference between EN AW-2014 and EN AW-2024?
The main differences are in the following elements: Si, Mn, Cu, Mg. EN AW-2014 is a Aluminum grade, while EN AW-2024 is a Aluminum grade.
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