abstract |
This invention relates to a stable zinc-aluminum quaternary alloy having tensile strength well in excess of 50,000 psi and excellent machinability characteristics, the alloy being formed by subjecting the zinc-aluminum alloy containing from about 20 to 28 weight percent aluminum, from about 0.1 to 3.5 weight percent copper, about 0.01 to 0.5 weight percent magnesium and the remainder zinc, at a temperature between about 550 DEG F., and 750 DEG F., for a time to effect homogenization of said alloy, working the homogenized alloy at a temperature above the eutectoid transformation temperature, quenching the alloy, providing an effective temperature for a period of time to produce transformation into a two-phase alloy and cooling the alloy to ambient temperature. |