Hardness–strength relationships in the aluminum alloy 7010

The relationship between Vickers hardness, yield stress and tensile strength was analyzed by combining data from two independent studies involving 7010 alloy plate and a rectilinear forging. The hardness–yield stress data from the two studies overlapped, suggesting a possible fundamental relationship. Constraint factors calculated by using contact mechanics models were evaluated and the one found by Shaw and DeSalvo was found to agree with the slope for the hardness–yield stress data. The y-intercept of the hardness–yield stress relationship was explained by the work hardening taking place during Vickers testing. The equation found to fit the hardness–yield stress data for 7010 plate and forgings also provided a very respectable fit to a third independent study. Moreover, an empirical equation was developed to express the hardness–tensile strength relationship.