Age-hardening model for Al-Mg-Si alloys: a computationally efficient multi-phase approach to predict the evolution of yield strength

Heat-treatable aluminum alloys, such as EN AW-6082, require a specific heat treatment to obtain the desired mechanical properties. Choosing process parameters, such as time and temperature, is a sophisticated task. Current precipitation and yield strength models are often too complex and computationally expensive for real-time applications. This study presents a new dynamical, real-time-capable mathematical model for the age hardening of Al-Mg-Si alloys. It predicts the relative phase fractions of multiple phases for arbitrary time-temperature curves using an extended version of the Starink model. Based on these phase fractions, the yield strength is calculated using a semi-empirical relationship. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements and tensile tests are used to identify the model parameters and validate the model’s accuracy. Our findings demonstrate excellent agreement between the simulated and measured results. Therefore, the computationally efficient age-hardening model offers a simulation framework for control tasks and enables the calculation of optimal process parameters.