5052 Aluminum Sheets
5052 Aluminum Sheets
5052 Aluminum is the highest strength alloy among common non-heat-treatable aluminum grades. Known for excellent fatigue strength and superior resistance to marine atmosphere and salt water corrosion, this versatile material can be drawn or formed into intricate shapes. Its slightly greater strength in the annealed condition minimizes tearing compared to 1100 or 3003 alloys. With excellent workability and finishing characteristics, 5052 aluminum sheets are ideal for aircraft fuel/oil lines, fuel tanks, transportation equipment, and various sheet metal applications.
- 5052-H32 Aluminum
- Non-Heat Treatable
- Marine Grade
- Excellent Formability
Overview
5052 Aluminum Sheets represent the premier choice in non-heat-treatable aluminum alloys, offering an exceptional balance of strength, formability, and corrosion resistance. This versatile grade is renowned for its high fatigue strength, making it a reliable material for demanding structural and marine environments. As the strongest of the common non-heat-treatable alloys, 5052 aluminum provides engineers and fabricators with a material that can be drawn or formed into intricate shapes without the tearing issues associated with softer grades like 1100 or 3003.
From a technical perspective, 5052 aluminum sheets contain magnesium as the primary alloying element, which significantly enhances its strength characteristics while maintaining excellent workability. The alloy's composition delivers particularly good resistance to salt water and marine atmosphere corrosion, outperforming many other aluminum grades in challenging environments. This combination of properties makes 5052 aluminum sheet metal (defined as material less than 0.249 inches thick) exceptionally valuable across multiple industries.
The applications for 5052 aluminum sheets are extensive and varied. In the transportation sector, these sheets are commonly used for aircraft fuel and oil lines, fuel tanks, and various structural components. The marine industry relies on 5052 for boat hulls, decks, and marine hardware due to its superior saltwater corrosion resistance. Additional applications include electronic chassis, architectural panels, chemical equipment, and general sheet metal work where durability and formability are paramount.
Key advantages of choosing 5052 aluminum sheets include their excellent finishing characteristics, which allow for superior paint adhesion and surface treatment results. The material's slightly greater strength in the annealed condition minimizes production issues while maintaining formability. Whether your project requires welding, bending, or deep drawing, 5052 aluminum sheets deliver consistent performance and reliability that B2B customers can depend on for critical applications.
Specifications
- ASTM Standards: ASTM B209, ASTM B928
- Thickness Range: 0.016" to 0.249" (Sheet)
- Width Range: 36" to 60"
- Length Range: 96" to 144"
- Temper Designations: H32, H34, H36, H38, O
- Density: 0.0975 lb/in? (2.70 g/cm?)
- Melting Point: 1120-1200F (605-650C)
- Tolerances: ASTM B209 standard tolerances for sheet products
Values may vary by mill & heat; verify against the MTR for your order.
Applications
- Aircraft fuel/oil lines and tanks
- Marine components and hulls
- Transportation equipment panels
- Electronic enclosures and chassis
- Architectural building panels
- Chemical processing equipment
- Food processing machinery
- Marine and offshore structures
- Truck and trailer bodies
- Signage and decorative applications
Weldability
- Excellent weldability using MIG or TIG processes
- Recommended filler metals: 5356, 5556, or 5183 aluminum filler wire
- Pre-cleaning with a stainless steel brush is essential to remove oxides
- Use proper shielding gas (argon or argon/helium mixtures)
- Avoid overheating to prevent excessive grain growth
How to Measure
Thickness: Measured in inches or gauge (e.g., 0.063" or 16 ga). Use calipers for accurate measurement.
Width & Length: Specify dimensions in inches (e.g., 48" x 96"). Standard tolerances follow ASTM B209 specifications.
Ordering Example: To order a 4' x 8' sheet of 0.125" thick 5052-H32, specify: '5052-H32 Aluminum Sheet, 0.125" x 48" x 96"'.
Tolerances: Confirm critical tolerances for your project with our sales team. Custom tolerances may be available.
Order Checklist
- Thickness (gauge or decimal inch)
- Width and length dimensions
- Alloy and temper (5052-H32, etc.)
- Quantity (sheets or square footage)
- Cutting instructions (full sheets or custom cut)
- Finish requirements (mill finish, brushed, etc.)
- Any certifications required (MTR)
- Special handling or packaging requirements
