How To Select Aluminum Grade for Custom Fabrication?

When selecting aluminum alloys for custom aluminum fabrication, the choice of material depends on the specific requirements of the project, such as strength, corrosion resistance, machinability, weldability, and cost. For mature projects, we respect customers’ design and will use the material grade specified on the drawing without any compromising.  For new design, we are happy to discuss about the suitable material grade per the product’s function, working environment, test requirement and budget. Sample can be made for approval before mass production.

Below is a guide to help with aluminum alloy material selection for custom fabrication:

Key Factors to Consider

1. Application Requirements:

• What is the part's function? (e.g., structural, decorative, thermal management)

• What are the environmental conditions? (e.g., exposure to moisture, chemicals, or high temperatures)

• What are the mechanical requirements? (e.g., strength, hardness, fatigue resistance)

2. Fabrication Process:

• Will the part be machined, welded, bent, or stamped?

• Does the alloy need to be easily formable or machinable?

3. Cost and Availability:

• Is the alloy cost-effective for the project?

• Is it readily available in the required form (e.g., sheet, plate, extrusion)?

Common Aluminum Alloys for Custom Fabrication

Here are some of the most widely used aluminum alloys and their typical applications:

1. 1000 Series (Pure Aluminum)

Alloys: 1050, 1060, 1100

Properties:

• High corrosion resistance

• Excellent thermal and electrical conductivity

• Soft and easy to form

Applications:

• Chemical tanks

• Reflectors

• Electrical components

2. 2000 Series (Copper Alloys)

Alloys: 2024, 2014

Properties:

• High strength

• Good machinability

• Lower corrosion resistance (requires coating or anodizing)

Applications:

• Aerospace components

• Structural parts

• High-stress applications

3. 3000 Series (Manganese Alloys)

Alloys: 3003, 3105

Properties:

• Moderate strength

• Good formability and weldability

• Excellent corrosion resistance

Applications:

• HVAC systems

• Kitchen equipment

• General sheet metal work

4. 5000 Series (Magnesium Alloys)

Alloys: 5052, 5083, 5754

Properties:

• High strength and toughness

• Excellent corrosion resistance (especially in marine environments)

• Good weldability

Applications:

• Marine components

• Pressure vessels

• Automotive parts

5. 6000 Series (Magnesium-Silicon Alloys)

Alloys: 6061, 6063, 6082

Properties:

• Good strength-to-weight ratio

• Excellent machinability and weldability

• Good corrosion resistance

Applications:

• Structural frames

• Architectural components

• Automotive and bicycle parts

6. 7000 Series (Zinc Alloys)

Alloys: 7075, 7050

Properties:

• Very high strength (similar to steel)

• Good fatigue resistance

• Lower corrosion resistance (requires protective coatings)

Applications:

• Aerospace and defense components

• High-stress structural parts

Selection Guide from Yixing Tech

Based on the specific needs of your project, here are some recommendations:

1. For General Fabrication:

Use 5052 or 6061 for a balance of strength, weldability, and corrosion resistance.

2. For High-Strength Applications:

Use 2024 or 7075 for aerospace or structural parts requiring high strength.

3. For Corrosion Resistance:

Use 5052 or 3003 for marine or outdoor applications.

4. For Machining:

Use 6061 or 7075 for parts requiring extensive machining.

5. For Thermal or Electrical Conductivity:

Use 1050 or 1060 for heat exchangers or electrical components.

Additional Considerations

Surface Treatment: Anodizing, powder coating, or painting can enhance corrosion resistance and appearance.

Temper Designation: Pay attention to the temper (e.g., T6, T651, H32), as it affects the alloy's mechanical properties.

Formability: For complex shapes, choose alloys with good formability, such as 3003 or 5052.

By carefully selecting the right aluminum alloy based on the project requirements, Yixing Tech can ensure optimal performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness for custom aluminum fabrication projects. Contact us today for your project and we will provide non-biding offer and solutions.