Abstract: High strength extrudable and readily weldable aluminum base alloys are prepared comprising 0.9-1.5% magnesium, 0.4-0.8% silicon, and 0.9-1.5% copper, which may also include optional elements such as manganese, iron, and chromium, wherein the silicon content must not exceed the sum of 0.58 .times. magnesium content plus 0.25 .times. the manganese plus iron contents and the copper content must not exceed the sum of magnesium plus silicon contents. Such alloys display improved retention of strength properties after being subjected to welding conditions.

Abstract: Multiple gauge metal strip is prepared by a process which comprises first shaving said strip by a process comprising drawing said strip through a shaving apparatus adjusted to achieve maximum stock removal in relation to the yield strength of said strip whereby said yield strength is not exceeded whereby surface reduction is confined to an area comprising 5 to 50% of total surface area and volume reduction ranges from 10 to 60% of initial strip cross sectional area, and drawing the strip through a die which defines the desired final cross sectional configuration to produce a reduction of said strip to final dimension, wherein said drawing is performed without direct surface-to-surface contact between said strip and said die.