5086 h32 aluminum plate
5086 H32 aluminum plate is a widely used aluminum alloy plate known for its exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and good weldability. This alloy is part of the 5000 series, featuring magnesium as its principal alloying element. Its properties and capabilities make it ideal for various demanding structural and marine applications. Here, we provide a comprehensive yet concise overview of its functions, practical applications, and important technical details to help customers understand the value of 5086 H32 aluminum plate in industrial contexts.
Features and Functions of 5086 H32 Aluminum Plate
5086 H32 aluminum plate is renowned for several core functionalities that make it a preferred choice across multiple industries:
- High Strength with Good Formability: The H32 temper delivery ensures the aluminum plate is strain-hardened and partially annealed, providing a strong yet ductile material suitable for further fabrication or forming processes.
- Excellent Corrosion Resistance: Particularly against seawater and marine environments, the high magnesium content (~4.0-4.9%) delivers superior protection, even in harsh corrosive conditions.
- Weldability: This alloy is easily weldable by conventional methods such as MIG and TIG welding, making it highly versatile in construction and repair work.
- Lightweight: Like all aluminum alloys, 5086 offers a low density advantage (about 2.66 g/cm³), balancing strength and weight, ideal for transportation and marine structures.
- Good Machinability: While somewhat tougher than pure aluminum, it machines well allowing diverse manufacturing approaches.
Common Applications of 5086 H32 Aluminum Plate
5086 H32 finds broad use cases mainly thanks to its balance of mechanical performance and corrosion resistance, including:
- Marine vessels and shipbuilding (hull plating, bulkheads, deck plates)
- Pressure vessels requiring lightweight, strength, and corrosion resistance
- Truck and trailer components
- Aerospace components subject to moderate stresses and corrosive exposures
- High-performance sporting equipment such as bicycle frames and roll cages
- Chemical storage tanks where non-ferrous metal preference is needed
Technical Parameters and Standards
The manufacture and quality control of 5086 H32 aluminum plate are governed by internationally recognized standards, detailing its mechanical properties, dimensions, and testing methods.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Alloy Series | 5000 Series (Al-Mg) |
| Specific Alloy | 5086 |
| Temper | H32 (strain hardened and stabilized) |
| Density | 2.66 g/cm³ |
| Melting Range | 570 - 650°C |
| Standard Specifications | ASTM B209, AMS 4037, JIS H aluminums, ISO |
Chemical Composition (wt.%)
Designed to optimize strength and corrosion resistance, the exact composition of the alloy is:
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Magnesium (Mg) | 4.0 – 4.9 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.4 – 1.0 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 0.05 – 0.25 |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.4 |
| Copper (Cu) | ≤ 0.1 |
| Zinc (Zn) | ≤ 0.25 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.4 |
| Aluminum (Al) | Balance |
Mechanical Properties
Suitably engineered to provide tensile strength and ductility balance in the H32 condition:
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Yield Strength (MPa) | 228 - 276 |
| Ultimate Tensile Strength (MPa) | 290 - 340 |
| Elongation (%) | 10 - 17 |
| Hardness (HB) | 65 - 75 |
| Modulus of Elasticity (GPa) | ~70 |
These properties may slightly vary depending on thickness and exact tempering methods.
Heat Treatment and Tempering Conditions
5086 alloy is non-heat-treatable; instead, its mechanical properties are enhanced by work hardening (strain hardening). The H32 temper condition implies:
- H3x Temper: Strain hardened to approximately one-half hard followed by stabilization
- H32 Specifics: Strain hardened then stabilized to a quarter hard temper optimizing both strength and formability
Such cold working treatments increase strength without significantly reducing corrosion resistance.
Corrosion Resistance & Environmental Durability
One chief merit of 5086 aluminum, particularly in marine industries, is resilient corrosion resistance against seawater, salt spray, and industrial chemicals. The alloy sustains minimal pitting and crack propagation in hostile environments which ensures structural longevity.
Fabrication and Welding
5086 H32 aluminum plates can be efficiently formed, rolled, and shaped. Skilled fabrigators utilize the following while processing:
| Fabrication Method | Comments |
|---|---|
| Welding | Excellent with MIG, TIG |
| Machining | Moderate difficulty |
| Forming | Medium deformation capacity |
| Surface treatment | Anodizing improves appearance and corrosion resistance |
