AbstractThe influence of structural changes occurring during the total processing cycle of AA 2014 alloy has been investigated and their contribution to the final extrudate structure and properties assessed. The importance of an adequate homogenisation treatment is demonstrated and it is also shown that, with the correct processing conditions, acceptable properties may be produced in both the T5 and T6 tempers. The influences of processing and of aging on the fracture properties are investigated in detail. It is shown that the homogenisation and aging sequences are critical for the production of damage tolerant material that is also sensitive to the extrusion parameters.MST/1231