7005 Aluminum Fabrication Guidelines

ALIGNING

Alignment after welding should be performed as soon as possible, while the material around the weld is still at its softest. 7005 alloy hardens quickly with age, which makes alignment increasingly difficult over time. As the tubes continue to age-harden, more force is required to straighten the frame, raising the risk of damaging either the tube or the weld. Such damage may not be immediately visible but can significantly reduce the frame’s lifespan.

It is recommended that alignment be completed within 6 hours of welding. For frames assembled in stages, each subassembly should be aligned within the same 6-hour window.

ARTIFICIAL AGE

For 7005-T6 condition: age for 6 hours at 200°F (±10°F), followed by 4 hours at 320°F (±10°F)

(Note: Standard processing of 7005 frames does not require solution heattreatment and quench after welding.)