There are many different aluminum alloys used in a wide variety of applications throughout industries. The chemical composition of the specific aluminum alloys makes some more suitable for specific types of uses and different environments.
For use in extreme types of conditions, including in marine applications such as shipbuilding and military and defense use, 5083 aluminum is often the alloy of choice. It is also used in any type of system where there will be pressure, such as pressure tanks and processing applications. When there is a combination of high strength as well a high weldability required, this is also an alloy that is a good match.
Considered to have exceptional thermal conductivity, this is an aluminum alloy that is a very good option in molding applications. It is sold in both block and plate form in a variety of standard sizes as well as custom dimensions.
Chemical Composition
One of the reasons that 5083 aluminum is so good in these applications and has such high strength as well as corrosion resistance is because of the alloy’s chemical composition. While aluminum forms about 92.4 to 95.6% of the alloy, there is between 4 and 4.9% magnesium. Additionally, there are lesser amounts of zinc, silicon, manganese, copper and a very small amount, not more than 0.25%, of chromium.
This combination provides the resistance to saltwater, which can be destructive to many other aluminum alloys. It also allows this alloy to be used in contact with most industrial chemicals with good resistance to any surface damage.
The one notable issue with the use of 5083 aluminum is that it is a non-heat treated alloy. As such, it should not be used in applications where the temperature will exceed 65 degrees Celsius or approximately 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
