Which ingredient is particularly critical in the treatment of Alloy 2117 rivets?

The treatment of Alloy 2117 rivets is particularly critical with aluminum because this alloy is a type of aluminum that is strengthened through the addition of other elements. Alloy 2117 specifically contains a significant proportion of aluminum, which serves as the base metal for the alloy.

In the case of alloy 2117, aluminum is combined with other elements such as copper and small amounts of other alloys to enhance its strength, durability, and corrosion resistance, which are essential properties for rivets used in aircraft structures. These attributes allow the rivets to withstand the mechanical stresses encountered in aviation applications.

While other elements like magnesium, zinc, and silicon contribute to different aluminum alloys and can improve certain properties, the foundational role of aluminum in the structure and performance of Alloy 2117 makes it the most critical ingredient in the treatment and processing of these rivets. Therefore, understanding the significance of aluminum helps in grasping how alloy treatments achieve optimal performance in aerospace applications.