What must be minimized on parts fabricated from Alclad 2024-T3 aluminum sheet stock?

Minimizing scratches and kinks on parts fabricated from Alclad 2024-T3 aluminum sheet stock is crucial because these imperfections can compromise the integrity and performance of the material. Alclad aluminum is characterized by its thin layer of pure aluminum applied over a core of the alloy, which provides corrosion resistance without significantly affecting the desirable strength characteristics of the underlying alloy.

When scratches or kinks occur during handling or fabrication, they can penetrate through the protective cladding. This may expose the core alloy to corrosive environments, increasing the likelihood of corrosion and weakening the part over time. Maintaining the surface integrity is essential, particularly in aerospace applications where structural components must adhere to strict safety and durability standards.

While considerations around weight, size, cost, and time are also important in the manufacturing process, they do not directly impact the material's fundamental properties as significantly as surface defects do. Hence, the focus on minimizing scratches and kinks reflects a prioritization of the performance and longevity of the components made from this specialized aluminum sheet stock.