a process of increasing the hardness and strength of an alloy by the precipitation of particles of a phase from a supersaturated solid solution alloy. The hardening cycle usually consists of heating or annealing at a temperature sufficiently high to maintain solid solution; rapid cooling or quenching to retain the supersaturated solid solution, and subsequent heating at a temperature lower than the solution anneal to effect the precipitation.
synonyms:precipitation hardening; ageing
see also: high-performance alloys
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For copper, ageing can also refer to the weathering of copper surfaces used in architectural applications. In wire & cable applications, the term is used for the deterioration of insulation materials in operation under the influence of heat, leading to premature failure.
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