Material grade · 5052
Aluminum 5052
Last updated October 13, 2026
A corrosion-resistant aluminum grade frequently selected for formed and machined components.
Overview
5052 is a non-heat-treatable aluminum-magnesium alloy known for good formability and corrosion resistance. It is frequently evaluated for sheet-metal brackets, covers, enclosures and marine-adjacent components.
Temper is essential to bend behavior. H32 is a common sheet condition, but thickness, grain direction, bend radius and supplier practice affect forming. 5052 is not a direct high-strength substitute for 6061 machined plate.
Scope note: This article explains general material behavior. It is not a statement that every form, temper or grade is held in stock. AYBERK confirms sourcing, process capability and project requirements through manual RFQ review.
Material characteristics
Drawing-led selection
Material is reviewed against function, environment and finishing requirements.
Machining review
Geometry and critical features guide tools, workholding and process planning.
Traceable specification
Customers should state the required grade and any documentation needs on the RFQ.
Technical properties
Use values only with the stated alloy condition, product form and source standard. Blank values are intentionally not inferred.
General properties
- DesignationASTM B209 for aluminum sheet and plate, with alloy, temper and thickness stated
- 5052
- Reference condition / formConfirm on purchase specification and drawing
- H32 or drawing-specified sheet temper
Physical properties
- Reference densityTypical handbook or supplier-datasheet value; not an acceptance limit
- approximately 2.68 g/cm³
- Physical-property interpretationUse the selected grade datasheet for design calculations
- Low density and useful corrosion resistance support lightweight formed structures.
Mechanical properties
- Mechanical-property interpretationCondition, thickness and test method must be stated
- Formability and strength depend on temper, thickness and direction; use the ASTM product table and certificate.
Chemical / composition data
- Composition controlASTM B209 for aluminum sheet and plate, with alloy, temper and thickness stated
- 5052 is aluminum alloyed principally with magnesium, with chromium and controlled impurities defined by the product standard.
Machinability and process notes
5052 can be cut and machined, but it is commonly selected for fabrication rather than extensive chip removal. Burr control, scratch protection and stable sheet support are important.
Use bend radii appropriate to temper and thickness, keep holes clear of bends and mark cosmetic surfaces. Plan grain direction and coating before the flat pattern is released.
Final feeds, speeds, tooling, coolant, workholding and inspection are process decisions made from the drawing and the verified stock. General guidance here does not replace a project-specific manufacturing review.
Typical applications
Precision components
Drawing-led parts for industrial and engineering programs.
Prototype validation
Functional parts for fit, assembly and performance review.
Repeat production
Documented batches with consistent process planning.
Surface finishing compatibility
Anodizing
Define appearance, masking and acceptable bend-area variation.
Powder coating
Specify color, texture, grounding points and coating build.
Conversion coating
Useful for protection or paint preparation when specified.
Advantages and limitations
Advantages
Lightweight, formable, corrosion resistant and compatible with common aluminum finishes.
Limitations
Lower strength and different machinability than 6061/7075, with welding and forming distortion still requiring control.
Design considerations
State 5052 temper and thickness, inside bend radii, grain or cosmetic direction, hardware and coating. Dimension formed features from functional datums.
Where properties are safety-critical, specify the governing standard, lot documentation and required test evidence. Dimensional and cosmetic requirements should be separated so they can be inspected at the correct production stage.
Material composition and specification
5052 is aluminum alloyed principally with magnesium, with chromium and controlled impurities defined by the product standard.
Reference framework: ASTM B209 for aluminum sheet and plate, with alloy, temper and thickness stated The purchase document and material certificate govern; this overview is not a certificate of conformity.
CNC machining recommendations
Use bend radii appropriate to temper and thickness, keep holes clear of bends and mark cosmetic surfaces. Plan grain direction and coating before the flat pattern is released.
Geometry-specific decisions include stock allowance, support, cutter reach, burr control, thermal management and the point at which critical dimensions are verified. Share expected quantity and finishing requirements with the drawing.
Material selection guidance
Choose 5052 for corrosion-resistant formed sheet. Compare 6061 for machined structural parts and stainless sheet where higher temperature or different corrosion behavior is needed.
If an alternative is acceptable, state the performance priorities instead of naming an uncontrolled substitute. Any alternative remains subject to customer approval.
Material and part gallery
Need parts machined from Aluminum 5052?
Send the drawing, material standard, condition and quantity. AYBERK will confirm availability and provide a manual quotation.
Request a Quote