In this chapter we discuss microstructure and properties of the standard casting aluminum alloys described in the Teal Sheets of the Aluminum Association (AA) [1]. These alloys comprise the bulk of all commercial casting aluminum materials both for suppliers and end users of such products. A detailed list of the alloy chemical compositions is presented in Appendix 1. In this chapter we discuss the phase composition and basic properties of the AA casting alloys and also, in part, of some Russian casting alloys. In each section an alloy chemical composition is provided, as well typical mechanical properties of some alloys. The guaranteed values of yield strength, relative elongation, and hardness are given in Appendix 3.

In most Western countries, including Europe and the United States, a special three-digit system is accepted (plus one additional digit after the colon mark) [1, 2]. The first digit defines the basic alloying system: 4 binary Al Si alloys; 3 Al Si alloys with additions of other alloying elements; 2 Al Cu alloys; 5 Al Mg alloys.

It should also be noted that in addition to the adopted AA standards there exists quite a number of commercial alloys that find only limited use. Their designation can be quite complex sometimes. Several of such alloys are considered in Chapter 6.