Tensile properties and fatigue strength under rotating bending were investigated on two aluminum-lithium alloys, 2090 and 8090, and the results were compared with conventional aluminum alloys, 2024-T4 and 7075-T6511.
The proof stress and tensile strength of Al-Li alloys were approximately the same as those of 2024 alloy, but were lower than those of 7075 alloy. On the other hand, the elongation and reduction of area were extremely small compared to conventional Al alloys.
The fatigue strength of Al-Li alloys was superior to that of conventional Al alloys in the region of long fatigue life (Nf>105). It is suggested that the excellent fatigue strength of Al-Li alloys is mainly due to their high resistance to crack initiation.