5082 - AlMg4.5 Aluminium Plates, Sheets, Blocks

Product Description

5082 Aluminium (AlMg4.5) is a high-magnesium alloy known primarily for its high strength-to-weight ratio and exceptional performance in marine and structural applications. While similar to the more common 5083, the 5082 alloy is often preferred for specific thin-gauge applications like beverage can ends and high-strength sheeting.

1. Key Designations and Equivalents

2. Chemical Composition (Typical %)

The high Magnesium content is the primary driver of this alloy's strength and its ability to work-harden rapidly.

• Magnesium (Mg): 4.00 “ 5.00%

• Manganese (Mn): 0.15% max

• Chromium (Cr): 0.10% max

• Iron (Fe): 0.35% max

• Silicon (Si): 0.20% max

• Copper (Cu): 0.15% max

• Aluminium (Al): Remainder

3. Mechanical Properties

5082 is one of the strongest non-heat-treatable alloys. Its properties are highly dependent on the level of cold work (H-tempers).

4. Physical Properties

• Density: 2.65 $g/cm3$

• Melting Range: 580C “ 640C

• Thermal Conductivity: 120 W/m·K

• Electrical Conductivity: 30% IACS

• Modulus of Elasticity: 70 GPa

5. Common Applications

5082 is specialized for environments where strength and corrosion resistance must coexist:

• Packaging: The "industry standard" for easy-open ends (tabs and lids) of beverage and food cans.

• Marine Components: Hull plating, bulkheads, and tanks where 5083 might be overkill or unavailable in specific thicknesses.

• Automotive: Structural panels and internal reinforcements where high formability in the "O" temper followed by work-hardening is required.

• Storage Tanks: Low-temperature (cryogenic) storage for liquefied gases.

6. Comparison: 5082 vs. 5154

7. Fabrication Notes

• Welding: Excellent weldability using standard arc methods (MIG/TIG). It maintains high joint efficiency.

• Corrosion: Exceptional resistance to saltwater. However, like all 5000-series alloys with $>3\%$ Mg, it should not be used in continuous service temperatures exceeding 65C (150F) to avoid stress corrosion cracking.

• Machinability: Better than the softer 5005/5052 alloys, but still produces long, stringy chips unless worked to a hard temper.