Constellium 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.
The 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.
Alternately, 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.
“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.
According 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.
Constellium HSA6 was recognized by the Altair Enlighten Awards for innovation in vehicle lightweighting, receiving the award for Runner Up in the Enabling Technology category.
“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.
In 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
