Abstract: A vertical casting process for an intermediate product, including the steps of (a) preparation of at least two aluminum based alloys, particularly a first alloy with composition P and a second alloy with composition T, (b) casting of the first alloy with composition P to a required height HP, and (c) casting of an additional required height HT of the alloy with composition T. The object of this invention is the manufacture of monolithic structural elements with working properties that are variable in at least one direction, and particularly bi-functional or multi-functional structural elements capable of performing at least two functions that are traditionally performed by two different parts.

Abstract: A vertical casting process for an intermediate product, including the steps of (a) preparation of at least two aluminum based alloys, particularly a first alloy with composition P and a second alloy with composition T, (b) casting of the first alloy with composition P to a required height HP, and (c) casting of an additional required height HT of the alloy with composition T. The object of this invention is the manufacture of monolithic structural elements with working properties that are variable in at least one direction, and particularly bi-functional or multi-functional structural elements capable of performing at least two functions that are traditionally performed by two different parts.

Abstract: A planar sheet of structurally hardened aluminum alloy, having, after quenching and aging, mechanical strength which varies continuously in a particularly defined direction of the planar sheet. The planar sheet is produced in a process comprising quenching and final aging, where the final aging comprises heating for a defined period of time a first portion of the plate or sheet including a first edge to a first temperature T and a second portion of the plate or sheet including an opposite edge to a second temperature t<T.