What Is 1050 Aluminum?
1050 is a commercially pure aluminum alloy with a minimum aluminum content of 99.5%. Because it contains almost no alloying additions, it is soft, extremely formable, highly conductive and very corrosion resistant. Engineers choose 1050 sheet where ductility, electrical and thermal conductivity, or economy matter more than strength, such as in insulation jacketing, cable trays, reflectors and deep-drawn parts.
Chemical Composition of Alloy 1050 (per EN 573-3 / ISO 209)
| Element | Al | Si | Fe | Cu | Mn | Mg | Zn | Ti | V |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| % max | 99.50 min | 0.25 | 0.40 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.03 | 0.05 |
Mechanical Properties by Temper
The table below shows typical tensile and yield ranges for common tempers of 1050 sheet and light plate, consistent with EN 485-2 and GB/T 3880.2. Elongation increases as thickness increases within each temper.
| Temper | Thickness (mm) | Tensile Rm (MPa) | Yield Rp0.2 (MPa) | Elongation A50 (typical %) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| O | 0.2–6.0 | 65–95 | ≈20 | 20–35 |
| H12 / H22 | 0.2–6.0 | 85–125 | ≥55–65 | 3–10 |
| H14 / H24 | 0.2–6.0 | 105–145 | ≥75–85 | 2–8 |
| H16 / H26 | 0.2–4.0 | 120–160 | ≥90–100 | 1–5 |
| H18 / H28 | 0.2–3.0 | ≥135 | ≥120 | 1–3 |
| H112 | 4.5–80 | ≥75 | ≥25 | 20–28 |
Measured values vary with gauge and the governing standard edition; the exact limits for a contract should be confirmed against the specified standard and thickness.
Common Applications of 1050 Sheet
Architectural cladding and curtain walls – lightweight, weatherproof panels with a clean finish.
Insulation rolls and jacketing – thin, flexible coil for thermal insulation and pipe protection.
Color-coated substrate – an excellent base for pre-painted building and signage products.
Sheet metal fabrication – brackets, enclosures, trim and decorative parts formed by bending and stamping.
Electrical and battery parts – tabs, covers and busbar where conductivity and light weight are required.
Cable trays and gaskets – corrosion-resistant trays and malleable sealing strips.
Choosing the Right Temper
Use the O temper for deep drawing and severe forming. H12 or H22 gives a slightly stiffer panel that still forms easily. H14 or H24 is the standard general-purpose temper for jacketing, cladding and fabrication. H16, H18 and their H2x equivalents are reserved for thin, stiff sections where flatness and dent resistance matter. For plate thicker than about 4.5 mm, H112 or F is normal supply condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 1050 and 1060 aluminum? Both are commercially pure alloys: 1050 has a 99.5% minimum aluminum content and 1060 a 99.6% minimum. Properties are very similar; 1060 is marginally purer and slightly more conductive.
Can 1050 sheet be anodized? Yes. Pure alloys anodize into bright, clear or colored finishes, and 1050 is a common choice for decorative anodized trim and reflectors.
Is 1050 strong enough for structural use? No. 1050 has low strength; for load-bearing structures choose a 3xxx, 5xxx or 6xxx alloy. 1050 is used where formability, conductivity and corrosion resistance are the priorities.
What thickness range is available in 1050 sheet? Sheet is typically supplied from 0.2 mm up to 6.0 mm, with plate from 6 mm to 400 mm in the O or H112 condition, depending on mill capability.
How does 1050 compare with 3003 for fabrication? 1050 is softer and more formable with higher conductivity; 3003 offers roughly 20% higher strength with still excellent formability. Choose 3003 when strength matters, 1050 when conductivity or maximum ductility matters.
