AN INVESTIGATION ON SMALL PUNCH TEST FOR ALUMINUM ALLOY AT LOW TEMPERATURE

Abstract

In this study, a specialized fixture for small punch test at low temperature was designed and manufactured. A small punch model was set up at low temperature for investigation of mechanical properties for aluminum alloy 6061. The results of the small punch test based on the conventional testing machine were consistent with previous publication and were sufficiently reliable. The experiment was carried out at a low temperature of about -50^oC. In the case of low temperature condition, the values of yield force as well as maximum force increase significantly compared to the case of room temperature condition. Thus, it is expected that the strength of aluminum alloy 6061, especially the yield strength and ultimate strength, at lower temperature is improved.  Meanwhile, the value of deflection at the maximum force almost un-changes in the two experimental temperature conditions.