What Is 5052 Series Aluminum?
5052 is the most widely used 5xxx-series aluminum-magnesium alloy, containing 2.2–2.8% magnesium plus a small chromium addition. Because it is a non-heat-treatable alloy, its strength is developed by cold working, which produces a range of H tempers. 5052 is known for very good corrosion resistance, high fatigue strength, excellent weldability and attractive economics, which is why it appears in vehicle bodies, marine components, fuel tanks, tread plate and general sheet metal work.
Understanding H2x and H3x Tempers
H tempers describe strain-hardened conditions. H3x tempers such as H32 are strain hardened and then stabilized with a low-temperature thermal treatment, which is the standard route for magnesium-bearing alloys and gives the most stable properties. H2x tempers such as H22 are more severely strain hardened and then partially annealed down to the required level. Both routes can reach similar strength classes, but the processing differs, and H22 and H24 are commonly treated as substitution tempers with slightly relaxed specification limits.
5052-H32 vs 5052-H22: Properties and Selection
| Property | 5052-H32 (typical) | 5052-H22 (typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Strength class | Quarter hard, stabilized | Quarter hard, partially annealed |
| Tensile strength Rm | 210–260 MPa (31–38 ksi) | ≈172–241 MPa (25–35 ksi) |
| Yield strength Rp0.2 | ≥130 MPa; typical ≈193 MPa | ≈70–160 MPa by gauge |
| Elongation A50 | ≈7–12% | Higher, improved ductility |
| Typical supply form | Sheet, plate, coil | Coil, sheet (substitution temper) |
H32 is the most commonly specified 5052 temper because its properties are stable and fully defined in ASTM B209 and EN 485-2. H22 offers similar service performance with better ductility; because its limits are relaxed, buyers should state the exact temper required so the mill supplies the intended condition.
Mechanical and Physical Data for Common 5052 Tempers
| Temper | Tensile Rm (MPa) | Yield Rp0.2 (MPa) |
|---|---|---|
| 5052-O | 170–215 | ≥65 |
| 5052-H32 | 210–260 | ≥130 (typical ≈193) |
| 5052-H34 | 235–285 | ≥180 |
| 5052-H36 | 255–305 | ≥200 |
| 5052-H38 | ≥270 | ≥220 |
Density is about 2.68 g/cm3; thermal conductivity around 138 W/m-K in H32; melting range approximately 607–649 degrees Celsius. Values are typical and vary with gauge and the governing standard edition.
Applications of 5052 Sheet, Coil and Foil
5052-H32 sheet: delivery van bodies, trailer skins, marine diesel tanks, truck air-brake reservoirs, fuel and oil lines, road signs and fan blades.
5052-H22 coil: automotive components, tread plate, can bodies and lids, shutters, door panels and handles where forming follows blanking.
5052 foil (H18, 0.07–0.14 mm): food containers, lunch boxes and honeycomb cores.
General: electrical enclosures, chemical equipment, highway hardware and coastal architecture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 5052-H32 and 5052-H22? H32 is strain hardened and stabilized, giving stable, fully specified properties; H22 is strain hardened and partially annealed, offering similar strength with greater ductility and relaxed specification limits.
Which 5052 temper is best for forming? O temper for severe forming, and H22 or H24 for moderate forming where some strength is wanted; H32 is the standard choice when parts are sheared, punched or lightly formed.
Is 5052 good for marine use? Yes. Its magnesium content and stable oxide film give very good saltwater corrosion resistance, making it a common choice for small craft, tanks and coastal fittings.
Can 5052 be welded? Yes, it welds excellently by MIG or TIG, typically with 5356 filler; welded joints in marine service are standard practice.
What thickness range is available in 5052? Supply ranges from thin foil (0.006 mm) through sheet and plate up to about 300 mm, in widths to 2650 mm, in the full temper range from O to H38.
