Age Hardening- also known as precipitation hardening, is a heat treatment process which increases the yield strength of alloys and stainless steels. In this process the alloys are kept at elevated temperatures for hours to allow precipitation to take place, hence the term "age hardened".
AISI- American Iron and Steel Institute
Alloy- is a substance created by melting two or more elements together (at least one a metal).
Alloying Element- an element added to an alloy which effects its mechanical and physical properties.
Aluminium- Chemical symbol AL, Aluminium is a silvery white ductile metallic element, making up about 8% of the surface of the earth. Used in the formation of many hard, light and corrosion resisting alloys.
Annealing- is the treatment of a metal or alloy by heating to a predetermined temperature, holding for a given time, then cooling to room temperature. This process alters the microstructure of the material, improving ductility, reducing brittleness and reduces internal stresses. Annealing temperatures vary from metal to metal and with properties required, but must be within a range which prevents growth of crystals.
API- American Petroleum Institute
Arc Welding- is the use of a sustained electrical discharge as a source of heat for melting filler metal to weld two base metals together.
Argon-a colourless, odourless, inert gaseous element found in the air and volcanic gases. Used commonly in welding, lasers and light bulbs.
ASME- American Society of Mechanical Engineering
ASTM- American Society for Testing & Materials
Austenite- A non-magnetic solid solution of ferric carbide or carbon in iron, used in making corrosion resistant steel.
Austenitic (Steel)- Steel that has enough nickel and chromium or manganese to retain austenite at atmospheric temperatures.
AWG- American Wire Gauge, AKA Brown and Sharp Wire Gauge, used predominantly in the United States.