5052 Aluminum
About 5052 Aluminum
5052-H32 aluminum sheet and plate offers excellent corrosion resistance, high fatigue strength, and superb weldability. Conforming to ASTM B209, it is ideal for marine components and fuel tanks. Stocked in Los Angeles with custom cutting available.
Quick Facts
- Material: 5052-H32 Aluminum
- ASTM Standard: B209
- Temper/Condition: H32 (Strain-hardened and stabilized)
- Available Sizes: 0.025" to 0.188" thickness
- Location: Los Angeles warehouse
- Services: Custom size, same-day pickup
Overview
5052 aluminum is a non-heat-treatable alloy with magnesium as its primary alloying element. This composition provides high strength among the non-heat-treatable grades, particularly in the H32 temper. It exhibits excellent fatigue strength and workability, making it suitable for forming operations. Known for its outstanding resistance to saltwater corrosion, it is often referred to as marine-grade aluminum. This combination of properties makes it a versatile material for demanding environments where other aluminum alloys may not perform as well.
Compared to the more common 6061 aluminum, 5052 offers superior corrosion resistance but lower overall strength. It cannot be strengthened by heat treatment; instead, it gains strength through work hardening. The H32 temper indicates that the material has been strain-hardened and then stabilized to a quarter-hard state, providing a good balance of formability and strength. Its smooth surface finish is suitable for many applications without additional processing, though it can also be anodized for enhanced protection.
Technical Specifications
Mechanical Properties (5052-H32)
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 33,000 | PSI |
| Yield Strength | 28,000 | PSI |
| Elongation | 12 | % |
| Hardness | 60 | HB |
| Density | 0.097 | lb/in³ |
Applicable Standards
- ASTM B209: Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate
Common Applications
- Marine: Boat hulls, masts, and fuel tanks - due to exceptional saltwater corrosion resistance.
- Automotive: Truck and trailer side panels, body components - for its light weight and high fatigue strength.
- Aerospace: Non-structural fuel and oil lines - for its formability and resistance to chemical corrosion.
- Industrial: Chemical processing equipment, pressure vessels - because it withstands corrosive industrial environments.
- Architectural: Building facades, flashing, and signage - for its good workability and weather resistance.
- Consumer Goods: Kitchen cabinets, home appliances, and fan blades - for its formability and clean appearance.
- Electronics: Chassis and enclosures for electronic devices - due to its light weight and non-magnetic properties.
- Fabrication: General sheet metal work requiring good formability - as it can be easily bent and shaped.
Working with 5052 Aluminum
Machining
5052 aluminum has fair machinability. It is softer than many other aluminum alloys, which can lead to gummy chips. High speeds, sharp tooling, and proper lubrication are recommended to achieve a good surface finish and prevent material buildup on the cutting tool.
Welding
This alloy has excellent weldability and is considered one of the best aluminum alloys for welding. It can be readily welded using common methods like MIG (GMAW) and TIG (GTAW). Filler rod 5356 is recommended for maximum weld strength and color match after anodizing.
Finishing
5052 aluminum can be anodized, providing a clear or colored protective coating that enhances its already excellent corrosion resistance. It also accepts various paint and powder coating finishes. The surface finish in the H32 temper is smooth and suitable for many applications as-is.
Related Products
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between 5052-H32 and 5052-H34 temper?
A: The temper designation refers to the level of work hardening. H32 is strain-hardened and stabilized to a 1/4 hard temper, while H34 is stabilized to a 1/2 hard temper. H34 has slightly higher strength but is less formable than H32.
Q: Can I use 5052 aluminum for structural parts like 6061?
A: While 5052 has good strength, it is not heat-treatable and has a lower yield strength (28,000 PSI) than 6061-T6 (40,000 PSI). It is better for applications where corrosion resistance and formability are primary, like tanks, not high-load structural frames.
Q: Is 5052 aluminum magnetic?
A: No, 5052 aluminum is non-magnetic, like all aluminum alloys. This makes it useful for electronic chassis and enclosures where magnetic interference must be avoided.
Stock & Custom Sizes
Available thicknesses: 0.025", 0.032", 0.040", 0.063", 0.188". Standard sizes include 4×10 ft sheets and plates. Custom size available.
Same-day cutting and Los Angeles pickup available.
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