Which aluminium series is best?

Grade 1000

The 1000 series grades of aluminium are the purest out of all the commercial aluminium grades. Each and every grade in the 1000 series contains a minimum of 99% pure aluminium within it. This high aluminium content gives the 1000 series grades exceptional resistance strength.

Grade 1050 is the most common grade of aluminium sheet available in the UK. Grade 1050 aluminium has the lowest strength of all the commercial grades of aluminium. It is most commonly available in H14 temper, which in technical terms is classed as half hard. 1050H14 is an extremely ductile grade of aluminium, and therefore it is most commonly used by fabricators and sheet metal workers who will bend and form the sheet into a requested shape.

Grade 2000

A commonly used alloy with excellent corrosion resistance and moderate strength, suitable for applications requiring formability and weldability.

The 2000 series grades are known as the copper grades of aluminium, copper being the main alloying element. The addition of copper increases the alloys strength and hardness, which in turn improves its machinability.

Grade 2011 is a high performance, high strength aluminium alloy. Grade 2011 is usually supplied in round bars.

Grade 2014 is a high strength aluminium alloy, supplied in bar and plate form. It has excellent machinability and is often interchanged with grade 2011.

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3000-grade aluminum: An alloy primarily known for its manganese content, offering enhanced strength and excellent corrosion resistance, often used in marine and chemical environments.

4000-grade aluminum: Typically utilised for welding applications due to its high silicon content, providing good fluidity and minimal shrinkage, particularly suitable for automotive and aerospace industries.

Grade 5000

Magnesium is the main element used in the composition of the 5000 series grades of aluminium. The 5000 series grades of aluminium are non heat-treatable alloys. The 5000 series grades also have excellent resistance to corrosion caused by saltwater, for this reason they are often referred to as the Marine Grades of aluminium.

Grade 5083 has the highest strength of all of the non heat treatable alloys, although it is not as strong or as hard as the more common grade 6082.  Grade 5083 is primarily available in plate form, and is most commonly available in O condition.

Grade 5754 is a medium strength alloy. For comparison it is not a strong as grades 6082 or 5083, but 5754 is stronger than grade 5251. Grade 5754 is most commonly used to produce aluminium 5 bar treadplate (often referred to as aluminium chequer plate).

Grade 5251 is a medium strength alloy, usually supplied in sheet form, and is most commonly supplied in temper H22. Previously known as NS4, grade 5251 has many similar attributes to grade 1050 aluminium sheet and is probably the 2nd most popular grade of aluminium sheet used in the UK today.

 

Grade 6000

The 6000 grades of aluminium are also known as the magnesium and silicon grades. Magnesium and silicon are the two main alloying constituents in all 6000 grades and specifications of aluminium.

Grade 6082 is the most common grade of commercial aluminium sections & plates, whilst T6 is the most common temper.

Grade 6063 is a medium strength alloy, it is the most common grade of aluminium for extruding. As far as commercial aluminium sections are concerned, T6 is the most common temper available.

Grade 6061 aluminium is a medium strength aluminium alloy that is predominantly produced for the American market. Grade 6082 is the nearest equivalent grade to this that is readily available in the UK, with very slight differences between the two.

 

 

Grade 7000

Known as the zinc grades – zinc being the largest alloying element, the 7000 series grades are the hardest and strongest commercial grades of aluminium.

Grade 7075 is the most common of the 7000 series grades.  It is an extremely high strength alloy;  the strongest of all commercial grades of aluminium. In fact, grade 7075 aluminium is stronger than many types of mild steel.

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8000-grade aluminum: An advanced alloy featuring lithium as the primary alloying element, offering exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and stiffness, predominantly used in aerospace and transportation sectors for lightweight structural components.

Other Grades

A common misconception is that there is an “Aerospace grade” or “Aircraft spec” of aluminium.  Various grades of aluminium from (but not limited to) the 1000 series, 2000 series, 5000 series, 6000 series and 7000 series grades of aluminium are routinely used in the aerospace industry. The aerospace industry does have a greater demand for harder grades, such as 7075, 2011, 2014, 6061 & 6082 than many other industries do, however the exact grade or specification used is very much dependant on the application.  Today phrases such as “Aircraft aluminium”, “Aerospace aluminium”, “Aerospace grade aluminium” and “Aircraft spec aluminium” are generic terms used by the masses to describe a hard, machinable aluminium alloy.

Dural is an obsolete trade name for a heat treatable aluminium copper alloy.  Also known as Duralumin, Duraluminium, Duralum & Duralium, the original Dural contained around 4 – 5% copper, 0.5 – 1% Manganese and 0.5 – 1.5% Magnesium which makes it very close in composition to grades 2014 & 2024.  Today the term “Dural” is often used as a generic term to describe any type of aluminium that has good strength and is suitable for machining.

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Aluminium grade refers to the quality of aluminium alloy used in various industries. It is an important factor that determines the strength, corrosion resistance, and other properties of aluminium.

Types of Aluminium Grades

There are several types of aluminium grades available in the market, each with its unique set of characteristics. Some common types include:

• 1000 series - This grade is pure aluminium and has a high corrosion resistance, making it suitable for food packaging and other non-industrial applications.
• 2000 series - These grades have copper as their primary alloying element. They have excellent mechanical properties and are commonly used in aerospace applications.
• 3000 series - The 3000 series aluminium grades contain manganese, which improves its strength and formability. These grades are commonly used in automotive parts.
• 4000 series - This grade has silicon as its primary alloying element, making it suitable for welding applications due to its low melting point.
• 5000 series - The 5000 series aluminium grades have magnesium as their primary alloying element. They offer a good combination of strength, formability and corrosion resistance.
• 6000 series - This grade contains both magnesium and silicon as alloying elements. It is commonly used in structural applications such as building frames and bridges.
• 7000 series - These grades have zinc as their primary alloying element. They offer high-strength properties and are commonly used in aerospace and military applications.

Factors that Affect Aluminium Grade Selection

Several factors affect the selection of aluminium grade for a specific application. Some of the key considerations include:

• Strength - Different aluminium grades have varying levels of strength, which is an important factor to consider when selecting a grade for structural or load-bearing applications.
• Corrosion Resistance - For industries such as food packaging or marine, corrosion resistance is a critical factor. Aluminium grades with higher levels of corrosion resistance, such as the 5000 and 7000 series, are preferred for these applications.
• Formability - The ability to be easily formed into different shapes without cracking or breaking is an important consideration for certain applications. For example, the 3000 and 6000 series grades are known for their good formability.
• Weldability - Some applications require welding of aluminium parts, making the weldability of a grade an essential factor to consider. The 4000 and 5000 series grades are known for their excellent weldability.
• Cost - The cost of different aluminium grades can vary significantly depending on their composition and properties. It is important to carefully consider the cost, along with other factors, when selecting a grade for a specific application.

Aluminium Grades in Different Industries

Aluminium grades are used in various industries due to their unique properties and versatility. Some of the common industries where aluminium grades find extensive use include:

• Aerospace - High strength and low weight make aluminium grades a popular choice in the aerospace industry. The 2000 and 7000 series are commonly used for aircraft structures, while the 1000 series is used for interior components.
• Automotive - With increasing emphasis on fuel efficiency, the automotive industry has also turned to aluminium grades to reduce vehicle weight. The 5000 and 6000 series grades are commonly used for body panels and structural components.
• Construction - Aluminium grades with good corrosion resistance are widely used in the construction industry for building facades, roofs, and window frames. The 6000 and 7000 series grades are commonly used in this sector.
• Packaging - Aluminium grades with excellent formability find extensive use in the packaging industry for items such as cans, foils, and containers. The 1000 series is commonly used for this purpose.
• Electronics - Aluminium grades with good electrical and thermal conductivity are widely used in the electronics industry for applications such as heat sinks and circuit boards. The 1000 and 6000 series grades are commonly used in this sector.

Aluminium grades are also found in other industries such as marine, sports equipment, and household appliances.

Factors Affecting Aluminium Grade Selection

When selecting an aluminium grade for a specific application, there are several factors to consider, including:

• Strength - The strength of an aluminium grade is determined by its alloy composition and heat treatment. Depending on the required strength, different grades such as 2000, 5000, and 7000 series can be chosen.
• Corrosion Resistance - The corrosion resistance of aluminium grades is affected by factors such as the presence of alloying elements and surface treatment. For applications in harsh environments, grades with high corrosion resistance, such as the 6000 and 7000 series, are preferred.
• Formability - The formability of an aluminium grade is crucial for applications requiring complex shapes. Grades with good formability, such as the 1000 and 5000 series, are commonly used for this purpose.
• Machinability - Some aluminium grades are easier to machine than others due to their composition and microstructure. For applications requiring precise machining, grades such as 2000 and 7000 series are often used.
• Weldability - The ability to weld different aluminium grades together is an essential factor in selecting the right grade for a specific application. Grades with good weldability, such as the 6000 and 7000 series, are commonly used in welding applications.

1050 Aluminium Sheet - The most popular Grade in the World
Aluminium Sheet Grade 1050

Aluminium is a highly popular metal sheet used in various industries due to its lightweight, corrosion-resistant and versatile properties. It is widely available in different grades, with each grade having its own unique characteristics and uses.

One of the most commonly used aluminium sheet grades is 1050. This grade is also known as pure aluminium or commercial purity aluminium because it has a purity level of 99.5%. This means that it contains only small trace amounts of other elements, making it almost entirely pure aluminium.

Aluminium sheet grade 1050 is a popular choice for manufacturers in the automotive, aerospace, and construction industries due to its excellent formability and high conductivity. The lack of alloying elements also makes it very malleable, allowing it to be easily formed into different shapes and sizes.

Moreover, 1050 grade aluminium sheet has good thermal and electrical conductivity, making it suitable for various electrical applications such as wiring and heat exchangers. It also has a high reflectivity, which is why it is often used in lighting fixtures and solar panels.

One of the main advantages of using aluminium sheet grade 1050 is its low cost. Its high availability and ease of production make it a cost-effective option for many applications. It also has a good resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for outdoor use without the need for additional coatings or treatments.

In terms of appearance, grade 1050 aluminium sheets have a smooth surface finish and are available in various thicknesses. This versatility in thickness allows for a wide range of uses, from thin foils to thick plates.

Fabrication Techniques

The process of aluminium sheet metal fabrication involves several steps, including cutting, bending, and welding. First, the sheet is cut into the desired size and shape using specialized machinery such as laser or waterjet cutters.

Next, the sheet may be bent or formed using a press brake to create angles or curves. This step requires precision and skill to ensure the sheet is bent to the correct specifications.

Finally, in some cases, welding may be necessary to join multiple sheets together or to attach other metal components. Welding aluminium requires specialized equipment and techniques due to its high thermal conductivity.

Benefits of Aluminium Sheet Metal Fabrication

Aluminium sheet metal fabrication offers numerous benefits, including:

• Lightweight: Aluminium is significantly lighter than other metals, making it ideal for use in applications where weight is a factor.
• Durable: Despite its lightweight nature, aluminium is also incredibly strong and can withstand a high amount of stress and pressure.
• Corrosion-resistant: Aluminium has a natural oxide layer that helps protect it from corrosion, making it suitable for use in outdoor or marine environments.
• Versatile: Due to its malleability and ability to be formed into various shapes, aluminium sheet metal can be used in a wide range of applications, from car parts to aircraft components.
• Recyclable: Aluminium is highly recyclable and can be melted down and reused without losing its properties, making it a sustainable choice for fabrication

Ross Goodwin

Ross Goodwin is a Managing Director at Aluminium Warehouse, the first online supplier of metal products in the UK, founded in 2005. Before taking on the mantle of Managing Director in 2007, he looked after all financial aspects of the company in his role of Financial Director. Ross has extensive knowledge of the metal industry and over recent years has honed his expertise in online selling, growth strategies and overseeing all marketing activities. He attended Leeds University gaining a B.A. Hons degree in Business Administration & Economics. Besides being a self-confessed workaholic, he enjoys travelling, cycling and open water swimming and is soon to compete in his first triathlon.