What Is the Difference Between Aluminium 2014 and 2014A?

In the world of high-strength aluminum alloys, Aluminium 2014 and Aluminium 2014A are two closely related grades often used in aerospace, automotive, and military engineering. Both belong to the 2xxx series of aluminum-copper alloys and are known for their excellent mechanical strength, high fatigue resistance, and good machinability.

Despite their similarities, there are important differences between Aluminium 2014 and 2014A in chemical composition, manufacturing standards, and specific applications. Understanding these distinctions helps engineers and buyers choose the right alloy for their project requirements.

In this in-depth article, SASAALUMINUM explains everything you need to know about the difference between Aluminium 2014 and 2014A, including their composition, mechanical properties, processing behavior, and industrial applications.

1. Introduction to 2000 Series Aluminum Alloys

The 2000 series aluminum alloys are primarily aluminum-copper (Al-Cu) alloys, developed to deliver high strength comparable to low-carbon steels. They are heat-treatable and widely used where structural integrity and weight reduction are essential — such as in aircraft, automotive frames, and heavy engineering components.

Among them, Aluminium 2014 and Aluminium 2014A are some of the most widely used grades because they combine excellent mechanical properties with good machinability and weldability under controlled conditions.

Both alloys belong to the same family, but 2014A is a slightly modified version of 2014, developed mainly to meet specific European and British standards (BS L168 / L168A).

2. Chemical Composition Comparison

The key difference between Aluminium 2014 and 2014A lies in their chemical composition limits. Although the overall composition is similar, 2014A has slightly different ranges of copper, silicon, and magnesium, giving it a marginally improved balance of properties.

Typical Composition (Weight Percent)

Element Aluminium 2014 Aluminium 2014A
Copper (Cu) 3.9–5.0 3.9–5.0
Magnesium (Mg) 0.2–0.8 0.4–0.8
Silicon (Si) 0.5–1.2 0.5–1.2
Manganese (Mn) 0.4–1.2 0.4–1.2
Iron (Fe) ≤ 0.7 ≤ 0.7
Zinc (Zn) ≤ 0.25 ≤ 0.25
Chromium (Cr) ≤ 0.10 ≤ 0.10
Titanium (Ti) ≤ 0.15 ≤ 0.15
Aluminium (Al) Balance Balance

Note: Aluminium 2014A often has tighter control on impurities and is refined for consistency, especially in aerospace applications under BS and EN standards.

3. Metallurgical Differences

Both alloys share the same Al-Cu-Mg-Si system, which provides excellent heat-treatable strength. However, the slightly higher magnesium and silicon content in 2014A improves its response to heat treatment and enhances toughness and corrosion resistance.

The improved balance of these alloying elements also gives 2014A better machinability and mechanical uniformity, particularly in large sections or complex forgings.

Summary of Metallurgical Behavior

  • Aluminium 2014: Standard alloy with excellent strength after heat treatment.

  • Aluminium 2014A: Improved control of trace elements and refined chemistry for enhanced mechanical consistency and corrosion resistance.

4. Heat Treatment

Both alloys can be heat-treated to various tempers such as T4, T6, and T651.

  • T4 Temper: Solution heat-treated and naturally aged — moderate strength with good formability.

  • T6 Temper: Solution heat-treated and artificially aged — high strength, used for structural applications.

  • T651 Temper: Solution heat-treated, stress-relieved by stretching, and artificially aged — provides maximum strength with reduced internal stresses.

Although both respond well to these tempers, Aluminium 2014A tends to achieve slightly higher consistency in tensile strength and hardness across large sections.

5. Mechanical Properties

While the properties of both alloys are similar, 2014A typically offers slightly improved toughness and fatigue strength due to tighter composition control.

Typical Mechanical Properties (T651 Temper)

Property Aluminium 2014 Aluminium 2014A
Tensile Strength 440–470 MPa 450–480 MPa
Yield Strength 370–400 MPa 380–410 MPa
Elongation 10–13 percent 11–14 percent
Hardness (HB) 120–140 125–145
Modulus of Elasticity 71 GPa 71 GPa

Both alloys provide excellent strength-to-weight ratios, making them suitable for load-bearing and structural parts in aerospace and transportation sectors.

6. Corrosion Resistance

Both Aluminium 2014 and 2014A have moderate corrosion resistance, typical of 2xxx series alloys. They are more susceptible to corrosion than 5xxx or 6xxx series but can be protected through anodizing or cladding (Alclad).

However, 2014A shows marginally better resistance to stress corrosion cracking (SCC) and intergranular corrosion, thanks to its refined composition.

For marine or outdoor applications, anodized or coated surfaces are recommended to prevent pitting and oxidation.

7. Machinability and Workability

Both grades exhibit excellent machinability, particularly in the T6 and T651 tempers.

  • Aluminium 2014: Known for smooth chip formation and clean surface finish during machining.

  • Aluminium 2014A: Slightly better consistency and tool life, especially on CNC and precision-machined parts.

In forming operations, both alloys have limited formability due to their high strength, but can be formed in the T4 temper and later aged to T6 or T651 condition.

8. Weldability

Aluminium 2014 and 2014A are not easily weldable using conventional methods due to their copper content, which increases hot cracking risk.

If welding is unavoidable:

  • Recommended method: Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW / TIG).

  • Recommended filler metal: Al 2319.

  • Post-weld heat treatment is essential to restore mechanical strength.

Alternatively, mechanical fastening or friction stir welding can be used where applicable.

9. Surface Treatment

To enhance durability and appearance, both alloys are often subjected to:

  • Anodizing: Improves corrosion resistance and surface hardness.

  • Alcladding: Adds a thin pure aluminum layer for extra corrosion protection (common in aerospace sheet products).

  • Conversion coating or painting: Used for components in corrosive or marine environments.

2014A generally provides a slightly smoother anodized finish compared to standard 2014.

10. Applications of Aluminium 2014

Due to its high strength and good machinability, Aluminium 2014 is widely used in structural and mechanical engineering.

Common Applications Include:

  • Aerospace fittings and frames

  • Automotive chassis and suspension components

  • Hydraulic systems and pressure vessels

  • Forged parts and heavy-duty fasteners

  • Military vehicles and defense hardware

  • High-performance bicycle frames and tools

It is particularly valued where high strength and fatigue resistance are essential but weight reduction is also a priority.

11. Applications of Aluminium 2014A

Aluminium 2014A is used in similar applications but is especially preferred for aerospace and precision engineering, where consistency, toughness, and reliability are critical.

Typical Applications Include:

  • Aircraft structural components and forgings

  • Aerospace fasteners and bulkheads

  • High-load frames and engine mounts

  • Missile and defense systems

  • Precision machined parts in automation and robotics

Its slightly enhanced mechanical balance makes it more suitable for aircraft and military-grade components that demand strict quality standards.

12. Standards and Specifications

Both alloys comply with international material standards, but under different systems.

  • Aluminium 2014:

    • ASTM B209 / B210 / B221

    • AMS 4028 / 4035

    • ISO AlCu4SiMg

    • UNS A92014

  • Aluminium 2014A:

    • BS L168 / L168A (British aerospace standards)

    • EN AW-2014A

    • ISO AlCu4SiMg(A)

    • UNS A92014A

The “A” suffix in 2014A mainly originates from the European and British standards, representing a version of the alloy with slightly modified composition and improved purity for aerospace applications.

13. Key Differences at a Glance

Feature Aluminium 2014 Aluminium 2014A
Composition Standard Modified (tighter control)
Origin American standard (ASTM/AMS) British/European standard (BS/EN)
Strength Very high Slightly higher, more consistent
Corrosion Resistance Good Better under stress
Machinability Excellent Slightly improved
Application Focus General engineering Aerospace & defense
Standard Reference ASTM B221, AMS 4028 BS L168, EN AW-2014A

In summary, both are high-strength aluminum alloys, but 2014A offers refined control and improved reliability, especially for critical aerospace applications.

14. How to Choose Between Aluminium 2014 and 2014A

When selecting between the two:

  • Choose Aluminium 2014 for general-purpose engineering where cost efficiency and high strength are priorities.

  • Choose Aluminium 2014A for aerospace, defense, and precision-engineered parts where performance consistency and certification compliance are essential.

The difference may seem small on paper, but in critical load-bearing structures, 2014A’s superior control over impurities and tighter tolerances can make a significant difference in reliability.

15. Why Choose SASAALUMINUM

As a leading supplier of high-performance aluminum alloys, SASAALUMINUM provides both Aluminium 2014 and Aluminium 2014A in multiple product forms, including:

  • Plates and sheets

  • Bars and forgings

  • Extrusions and profiles

  • Billets and custom-machined parts

Our materials are certified to international standards (AMS, ASTM, EN, and BS) and come with EN 10204 3.1 or 3.2 inspection certificates.

At SASAALUMINUM, we ensure:

  • High purity and consistent quality

  • Custom cutting and CNC machining services

  • On-time global delivery

  • Technical support for alloy selection and processing

We serve clients across aerospace, automotive, defense, and marine sectors, offering materials engineered for precision, reliability, and long service life.

16. Conclusion

So, what is the difference between Aluminium 2014 and 2014A?

Both alloys belong to the same family of aluminum-copper high-strength materials, but 2014A features a slightly modified chemical composition and tighter quality control, resulting in improved mechanical uniformity, corrosion resistance, and toughness.

  • Aluminium 2014 is ideal for general engineering and automotive applications.

  • Aluminium 2014A is designed for aerospace and defense sectors where material consistency and certification are critical.

Both deliver excellent machinability, fatigue resistance, and structural strength — hallmarks of the 2xxx series alloys.

For certified, precision-grade Aluminium 2014 and 2014A materials, contact SASAALUMINUM, your reliable partner for high-strength aluminum alloys trusted across global industries.

Post time: Oct-22-2025