Commercial Grade Overview
Aluminium Commercial Grades typically refer to the 1xxx, 3xxx, and 5xxx series alloys. Alloy 1100 is commercially pure aluminium, offering excellent corrosion resistance and workability. Alloy 3030 is alloyed with Manganese to increase strength while maintaining good formability. Alloy 5052 contains Magnesium, providing much higher strength and excellent resistance to marine environments. These "Commercial" alloys are the backbone of general fabrication, ducting, food containers, and decorative architectural trim. Steel Emporium stocks these grades in various tempers (like H14, H18) to meet diverse mechanical requirements.
Key Advantages & Features
Lightweight
One-third the weight of steel, reducing transport and installation costs.
Corrosion Resistant
Naturally forms a protective oxide layer that prevents rust and decay.
High Formability
Excellent workability for bending, spinning, and welding applications.
| Grade | Al (min) | Si + Fe | Cu | Mn | Mg | Cr | Zn |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al 1100 | 99.00 | 0.95 | 0.05-0.20 | 0.05 max | - | - | 0.10 |
| Al 3003 | 96.75 | 1.30 | 0.05-0.20 | 1.0-1.5 | - | - | 0.10 |
| Al 5052 | 95.70 | 0.45 | 0.10 | 0.10 | 2.2-2.8 | 0.15-0.35 | 0.10 |
| Alloy & Temper | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Yield Strength (MPa) | Elongation (%) | Hardness (HB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1100-H14 | 110 - 145 | 95 - 130 | 9 - 20 | 32 |
| 3003-H14 | 145 - 185 | 125 - 165 | 8 - 16 | 40 |
| 5052-H32 | 215 - 265 | 160 - 215 | 12 - 18 | 60 |
| Property | Al 1100 | Al 3003 | Al 5052 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 2.71 | 2.73 | 2.68 |
| Melting Point (°C) | 643 | 640 | 607 |
| Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) | 222 | 193 | 138 |
| Electrical Conductivity (%) | 59 | 50 | 35 |
| Nominal Size (NB) | OD (mm) | SCH 10 | SCH 40 | SCH 80 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2" | 21.34 | 0.43 | 0.54 | 0.71 |
| 1" | 33.40 | 0.70 | 1.08 | 1.41 |
| 2" | 60.33 | 1.31 | 1.82 | 2.49 |
| 4" | 114.30 | 3.68 | 5.36 | 7.44 |
Common Applications
Kitchenware
Utensils, food containers, and foil packaging.
Architectural
Ducting, siding, gutters, and roof panels.
Marine Use
Boat hulls and marine structural parts (5052).
Transportation
Automotive panels and truck fuel tanks.
Electronic
Bus bars, capacitors, and heat sinks.
General Eng.
Toolboxes, signage, and decorative trim.
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