Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSBMW2013128I 2D CONVERTIBLE, ENG CD N52, STANDARD TRANSREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 1082 (COLLISION - BODY PANEL REPAIR (E71))BODY REPAIR GENERAL INFORMATION41 00... MATERIALS SCIENCE1. ALUMINUM1.3 MACHINING PROPERTIES
2013 BMW 128i 2D Convertible, Eng CD N52, Standard Trans
1.3 Machining Properties
2013 BMW 128i 2D Convertible, Eng CD N52, Standard TransSECTION 1.3 Machining Properties
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2014 BMW X6, 2013 BMW X6, 2012 BMW X6, 2011 BMW X6, and 2010 BMW X6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
MACHINING PROPERTIES
| Properties of aluminum compared with steel | Effects |
|---|---|
| Aluminum parts are magnetically neutral. | Attachment with magnetic tools/working aids is not possible. |
| Elasticity is only 1/3 as high. Elongation failure is approx. 50% slighter. |
Convertibility is limited in comparison with steel. Overstretching the material results in strain-hardening and an increased tendency of cracking. |
| Electrical conductivity is almost 4 times higher. | Electric welding procedures require different equipment (MIG welding). |
| Material expansion during heating is twice as high. | The material expands more markedly. Shorter heat treatment is necessary for removing dents. |
| Thermal conductivity is 3 times higher. | Heat is drained more quickly. Adjoining working areas are affected more heavily e.g. during welding. |
| Microstructural change between 200Β°C and 250Β°C. | Elongation characteristics and thus plasticity are improved. Strength is reduced.
IMPORTANT:
No heat treatment when working on the vehicle structure! Temperature cannot be monitored to sufficiently exact levels in garages.
|
| Aluminum shows no annealing colors. | The melting point is 650Β°C. Once the melting temperature has been reached, the material begins to flow without any further indications. The temperature can only be estimated by means of the paint coloring and the surface warpage.
IMPORTANT:
Do not use thermal applicators. Not suitable for garage use because the paint runs too quickly.
|
RENDER: 1.0x
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.