What Is 5052-H32 Aluminum
5052-H32 aluminum is a strain-hardened aluminum-magnesium alloy known for its excellent corrosion resistance, moderate strength, and good formability. It is widely used in marine, transportation, and industrial applications where durability and anti-corrosion performance are strictly required.
What H32 Means
The H32 temper designation breaks down as follows: H indicates the alloy gains its strength through cold working, or strain hardening, rather than heat treatment. The first digit 3 indicates the metal is strain hardened and then subjected to a low-temperature stabilizing process that fixes the mechanical properties and improves ductility, preventing gradual softening over time. The second digit 2 indicates the degree of hardness, meaning quarter-hard.
Key Properties
5052-H32 has excellent corrosion resistance, with the magnesium content creating a tough oxide layer that performs exceptionally well in saltwater, marine atmospheres, and industrial chemical settings. Strength is medium, with higher fatigue and tensile strength than 1100 and 3003 series. Formability is good for cutting, stamping, and bending, weldability is excellent with TIG or MIG, and machinability is moderate.
Technical Specifications
Per ASTM B209 and EN 485, the grade has density 2.68 g per cubic centimeter, tensile strength 210 to 260 MPa, yield strength at least 130 MPa, elongation at least 10 percent, thermal conductivity 138 W per meter per Kelvin, and magnesium content 2.2 to 2.8 percent.
Fabrication Guidance
5052-H32 bends to 90 degrees without cracking; use a bend radius of 1 to 1.5 times the material thickness and bend perpendicular to the rolling direction for best results. Recommended filler wire is ER5356, which matches the magnesium level for joint strength and corrosion resistance, with ER4043 as a lower-strength alternative. Clean the surface of aluminum oxide before welding to prevent porosity.
Applications
5052-H32 is the workhorse of the sheet metal industry: marine components such as boat hulls, pontoon decks, and offshore walkways; transportation equipment including truck bodies, trailer side panels, RV roofs, and ambulance structures; diesel fuel tanks and pressure vessels; electronic enclosures and medical equipment casings; and diamond or 5-bar anti-slip flooring for factories, fire trucks, and stairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does H32 mean?
A: Strain hardened, stabilized, and quarter-hard.
Q: Is 5052-H32 corrosion resistant?
A: Yes, excellent in saltwater and marine atmospheres.
Q: What filler is used for welding 5052?
A: ER5356 for matching strength and corrosion resistance.
Q: What is the tensile strength of 5052-H32?
A: 210 to 260 MPa.
Q: How does 5052-H32 compare with 6061-T6?
A: 5052 is more formable and corrosion resistant; 6061 is stronger.
Q: Can 5052-H32 be bent?
A: Yes, to 90 degrees with a 1 to 1.5 times thickness radius.
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