The grade 5xxx also goes by as the 5000 series wrought aluminum alloys. Its aluminum-magnesium (Al-Mg) system is the principal alloying element in the series. Manganese (Mn) is also present in almost every alloy of this group at minimal percentages.

Aluminum 5xxx Alloy Characteristics

Magnesium is widely used in alloying due to its excellent effectiveness. Mg is a superior hardener to Mn, 0.8% Mg = 1.25% Mn. So, adding magnesium in high quantities can enhance the 5000 series alloy’s mechanical properties.

Some of the key characteristics of grade 5xxx alloy are –

• Moderate-to-high mechanical strength
• Ultimate tensile strength of 18ksi to 51ksi
• Cold work (strain hardening) for further strength
• Non-heat-treatable
• Higher ductility when annealed (specific temp heat)
• Excellent corrosion resistance
• Stress corrosion at higher temps with over 3.5% Mg
• Superior weldability

An increase in magnesium content can result in effective strengthening through cold work. The permitted hot working temperature for these alloys is 260-510 °C (500-950 °F). Moreover, some 5xxx series alloys such as Grade 5052 is well suited for CNC Machining.

Common Aluminum Grade 5xxx Alloys

Having the highest mechanical strength among non-heat-treatable ones, the series has many uses. And the series features a higher number of aluminum-magnesium alloys.

Some of the most popular grade 5000 series alloys are –

• Grade 5005 (0.5% – 1.1% Mg, 0.2% Mn)
• Grade 5050 (1.1% – 1.8% Mg, 0.1% Mn)
• Grade 5052 (2.2% – 2.8% Mg, 0.1% Mn)
• Grade 5056 (4.5% – 5.6% Mg, 0.2% Mn)
• Grade 5083 (4.0% – 4.9% Mg, 0.1% Mn)
• Grade 5086 (3.5% – 4.5% Mg, 0.7% Mn)
• Grade 5154 (3.1% – 3.9% Mg, 0.1% Mn)
• Grade 5252 (2.2% – 2.8% Mg, 0.1% Mn)
• Grade 5254 (3.1% – 3.9% Mg, 0.01% Mn)
• Grade 5454 (2.4% – 3.0% Mg, 1.0% Mn)
• Grade 5456 (4.7% – 5.5% Mg, 1.0% Mn)
• Grade 5457 (0.8% – 1.2% Mg, 0.45% Mn)
• Grade 5652 (2.2% – 2.8% Mg, 0.01% Mn)
• Grade 5657 (0.6% – 1.0% Mg, 0.03% Mn)

The magnesium percentage for grade 5000 alloys range from 0.2% to 5.6% or 6.2%. Alloys with more than 3.0% Mg at over 150ºF can cause sensitization and potential stress cracking.

Chromium (Cr) is another minor impurity in almost every major alloy at lower percentages. Titanium (Ti), Beryllium (Be), Vanadium (V), and Gallium (Ga) are other minor impurities in the series.

Applications for Aluminum 5xxx Series Alloys

The weldability and strength make these wrought aluminum alloys ideal for a wide array of applications. Foil, pipe, plate, sheet, and wire are the most common forms of industrial use. Bar, coil, extrusions, rod, shate (4mm – 6mm sheet + plate), and tube are also available. But for manufacturing more intricate parts, Aluminum die casting could be a better option.

Marine

Alloys in the series hold good corrosion resistance even in marine atmospheres. Shipbuilding industry and bridge construction benefit from its mechanical strength and wear resistance.

Automotive

Its solid solution hardening can aid automotive trim at commercial levels. Pressure cryogenic vessels, petrol tanks, and dump truck bodies are also manufactured using these alloys.

Welding

The base alloys require filler materials for welding. The filler material depends on Mg content, use, and service conditions. High-Mg alloys are welded with 5xxx filler materials, whereas low-Mg alloys can take 4xxx or 5xxx fillers.

Architecture

Some architectural applications take corrosion resistance with non-heat-treatability into account. They can impart aesthetically pleasing and notably durable metal compositions.

Hardware

Zippers, rivets, nails, and similar small-sized tools occasionally use these alloys. Additional applications may involve manufacturing signage, screens, and shielding with 5xxx series wires.

Which Aluminum Alloys is Best for Your Project?

Grade 5xxx series alloys have some well-worth mechanical properties with large-scale applications. But apart from sheet metal applications, die-cast aluminum metals can be a great alternative as well. Sunrise Metal is a leading CNC machining and die-casting manufacturer in China with extensive experience in the industry. If you need help with your manufacturing project, contact us anytime for assistance.