5052-H32 vs. 6061-T6: Which Aluminum Alloy is Best for Your Project?

Aluminum alloys 5052-H32 and 6061-T6 offer excellent corrosion resistance and have high tensile strength. Both alloys can be anodized to further enhance their corrosion resistance and have a similar composition (the primary alloying elements of both 5052-H32 and 6061-T6 are magnesium and silicon).

Despite these similarities, 5052-H32 and 6061-T6 aren’t identical. When choosing between the two aluminum alloys, consider the application and the properties of 5052-H32 and 6061-T6.

Aluminum 5052-H32 At a Glance

5052-H32 is one of the strongest heat-treatable sheet metals. It is relatively easier to bend and form (does not crack or tear). It has excellent weldability and high fatigue strength and is more elastic than 6061-T6. The tensile strength of this aluminum alloy is 33,000 psi, and its yield strength is 28,000 psi. 5052-H32 has a smooth, shiny surface and is often used in sheet metal applications.

Aluminum 6061-T6 At a Glance

Aluminum 6061-T6 is usually used for machined parts instead of sheet metal fabricated parts. Also known as structural aluminum, 6061-T6 is famed for its superior strength and hardness. The heat-treatable alloy has an impressive tensile strength of 45,000 psi. It has excellent machinability, fair workability, formability, and weldability.

When to Use Aluminum 5052-H32?

Aluminum 5052-H32 is used in applications where corrosion resistance, formability, and weldability matter.

• Corrosion Resistance: 5052-H32 offers excellent corrosion resistance and is widely used in marine applications.
• Formability: 5052-H32 has very good formability and can be easily bent and shaped (does not crack or break as it is bent or formed into complex shapes).
• Weldability: The alloy also has good weldability and is commonly used for manufacturing sheet metal parts of automobiles and aircraft. Its excellent weldability also makes the alloy ideal for use in marine applications.
• Strength: 5052-H32 is not as strong as 6061-T6. That said, its moderate strength is sufficient for many applications.

Applications – 5052-H32 is used for fuel tanks, pressure vessels, and boat hulls.

When to Use Aluminum 6061-T6?

Choose aluminum 6061-T6 for your project if strength, machinability, heat-treatability, and weldability are crucial.

• Strength: 6061-T6 has a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it the ideal choice for structural applications.
• Machinability: The alloy has excellent machinability and is the right choice for machining projects.
• Heat-Treatability: 6061-T6 is heat-treatable and can be aged to enhance its hardness.
• Weldability: Though 6061-T6 has good weldability, it is more prone to cracking than 5052-H32. Post-weld heat treatment is often recommended to restore the strength of the alloy.

Applications – 6061-T6 is used for structural components, bike frames, aircraft parts, and automobile frames.

Bayou Metal Supply has an extensive collection of aluminum products. Aluminum angles, channels, beams – you name it, we’ve got it! To place your order, call (985) 643-3340.