What is the difference between aluminum 1100 and 5052?

The main difference between aluminum 1100 and 5052 lies in their alloy composition and mechanical properties.

Aluminum 1100 is a commercially pure aluminum alloy with a high aluminum content of 99.0%. It is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, high thermal conductivity, and good electrical conductivity. 1100 aluminum is soft and has low strength, making it suitable for applications that require formability and ductility. It is commonly used in chemical equipment, food processing containers, heat exchangers, and general sheet metal work.

On the other hand, aluminum 5052 is an alloy that contains 95.7% aluminum and 2.5% magnesium. It offers higher strength and better resistance to marine environments compared to 1100 aluminum. 5052 aluminum is commonly used in marine applications, such as boat hulls and components, due to its excellent corrosion resistance and good weldability. It is also used in sheet metal fabrication, automotive parts, and electronic components.