2024-T6 or -T8 Aluminum

Question:

2024-T6 or -T8 Aluminum should not be substantially softened by brief heating at 200F or even somewhat higher. As the time at temperature increases, there is the possibility of over-aging the metal and reduction in strength and hardness. Curves showing the effects of temperatures and exposure times on the room temperature properties of 2024 aluminum (and other alloys and their tempers) can be found in MIL-HDBK-5as well as various metallurgical references. D. H.

Answer:

Considering that the part in question is an aircraft instrument panel, I personally would not take the risk. Especially since the melt point for most powders is above 250F (a requirement before curing can take place even with UV systems). In addition, low-cure powders require 20–30 min at their lowest temperature of around 250F. For both these reasons, it would seem that 2024-T6 or -T8 aluminum will soften. I still say paint the panel with an air-dry or catalyzed liquid paint, which will provide excellent properties for the environment that the part will be subjected.