What is the maximum allowable depth for scratches or nicks on aluminum alloy tubing?

The maximum allowable depth for scratches or nicks on aluminum alloy tubing is 10% of the wall thickness. This guideline helps ensure the structural integrity of the tubing, as excessive damage can compromise its strength and overall performance, especially under pressure or stress.

When dealing with aviation or other critical applications involving aluminum alloy tubing, maintaining the integrity of the material is essential to prevent failure during operation. Limiting the depth of surface imperfections like scratches or nicks to 10% of the wall thickness provides a balance between usability and safety, enabling the tubing to perform effectively while minimizing the risk of catastrophic failure due to compromised sections. This standard is designed to protect the material characteristics and functionality expected from aluminum alloys in fluid line applications.