\n\tConstellium N.V., New York, introduces HSA6, a new generation of high-strength 6000-series alloys for extrusion-based automobile crash management systems, body-in-white structural components, and battery enclosures.<\/p>\n
\n\tThe alloy enables designers to optimize extrusion shapes and reduce wall thickness to achieve weight savings of 15 to 30% over conventional aluminum alloys. With UTS higher than 400 MPa, HSA6 also provides enhanced recyclability, machinability, and corrosion resistance.<\/p>\n
\n\tAlternately, it can provide 15 to 30% additional strength to reduce intrusion in the event of a crash, thereby enhancing protection of batteries, cooling systems, and other critical vehicle systems. Aluminum is the ideal material for absorbing energy in a collision to protect occupants, pedestrians, and vehicle integrity.<\/p>\n
\n\t“With Constellium HSA6, we are able to offer automakers a family of the highest strength 6000-series aluminum alloys available on the market for extruded automotive components,” says Martin Jarrett, Operational Excellence and Technology Director for Constellium’s Automotive Structures and Industry business unit.<\/p>\n
\n\tAccording to a new study by Ducker Worldwide, aluminum extrusions are expected to increase 65% for crash management systems and 100% for body-in-white components between 2015 and 2020, with continued growth through 2028. The alloy is in production for several 2017 and 2018 model year vehicles, including the Mini Countryman.<\/p>\n
\n\tConstellium HSA6 was recognized by the Altair Enlighten Awards for innovation in vehicle lightweighting, receiving the award for Runner Up in the Enabling Technology category.<\/p>\n
\n\t“It is an honor for Constellium to be celebrated as a leader in technology that helps reduce vehicle weight,” said Paul Warton, President of Constellium’s Automotive Structures and Industry business unit.<\/p>\n
\n\tIn addition to its existing extrusion plants in Europe, Constellium has created a new joint venture, Astrex, in Ontario, Canada, to produce its proprietary alloy for components supplied from Constellium’s Automotive Structures plants in North America<\/p>\n