The analysis of the mechanism of corrosion failure in a radiator manufactured from AA6063 aluminum alloy

The reasons for the damage to a radiator in a heating system made of AA 6063 aluminum alloy with T6 temper that led to perforation under service conditions were investigated. To analyze the failure, circulating water in the radiator system was analyzed; corrosion products were examined using optical and scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffractometry. The combined effects of galvanic effects due to the precipitation of the heavy metals copper and iron, intergranular corrosion and environmental effects caused the radiator's failure.