Aluminium Grade Information

Each aluminium grade in the 5000 series contains magnesium for enhanced corrosion resistance and strength. However, their specific properties and applications vary: 

• 5005 Aluminium – A general-purpose alloy with excellent formability, weldability, and anodising properties. 
• 5052 Aluminium – A marine-grade alloy with higher strength and corrosion resistance, particularly suited for marine and automotive applications. 
• 5251 Aluminium – Similar to 5052 but with lower magnesium content, it offers good weldability and corrosion resistance while being slightly less strong. 
• 5083 Aluminium – The strongest non-heat-treatable alloy, providing exceptional corrosion resistance for marine, transport, and heavy-duty applications. 

For marine environments, aluminium needs to be highly resistant to saltwater corrosion. The best choices are: 

• 5083 Aluminium – Highly resistant to seawater and commonly used in boat hulls, decks, and marine components. 
• 5052 Aluminium – Offers great corrosion resistance and is often used in small boats, fuel tanks, and coastal structures. 
• 5251 Aluminium – A solid alternative for moderate marine exposure, though slightly weaker than 5052. 

Yes! 5005 aluminium is widely used in building facades, cladding, and signage due to its smooth finish, corrosion resistance, and decorative anodising capabilities. 

• It provides an aesthetic, long-lasting finish. 
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor applications. 
• Easily machined, formed, and welded for custom architectural projects. 

5083 aluminium is the strongest non-heat-treatable alloy in the 5000 series, offering superior tensile strength and impact resistance. It is commonly used for: 

• Shipbuilding and industrial transport. 
• Military vehicles and pressure vessels. 
• High-load structural applications where strength is crucial. 

While both alloys are corrosion-resistant and easy to work with, 5052 aluminium has: 

• Higher strength and is better suited for marine applications. 
• Greater resistance to wear and deformation. 
• More common use in structural applications like trailers and storage tanks. 

On the other hand, 5251 aluminium is: 

• Easier to form and weld, making it ideal for sheet metal work and lightweight applications. 
• A great alternative for less demanding marine environments. 

• 5052, 5251, and 5083 aluminium offer excellent weldability. 
• 5005 aluminium is weldable but is generally used for decorative anodising rather than structural welding. 
• 5083 aluminium is best for heavy-duty welded structures like ships and transport vehicles due to its high strength and corrosion resistance. 

5083 aluminium retains its strength in extreme environments but is not suitable for temperatures above 65°C. Other aluminium grades or alloys should be considered for applications requiring heat resistance.

• 5005 aluminium is the best choice for decorative anodising. 
• 5052 aluminium can also be anodised, but it may result in a slightly different finish. 
• 5251 and 5083 aluminium are not typically anodised for decorative purposes due to their chemical composition. 

If both strength and corrosion resistance are critical, 5083 aluminium is the best choice due to its exceptional durability in harsh conditions. 

For moderate strength and corrosion resistance, 5052 aluminium is a great option.