Aluminum 5086 is a structural alloy that offers high electrical conductivity, malleability, good corrosion and heat resistance, and greater strength than aluminum 5052 and 5083. This cost-effective alloy can undergo cold working and strain hardening to enhance its strength, and it can be welded using arc welding and other conventional methods. Aluminum 5086’s many beneficial properties make it suitable for various applications.

Aluminum 5086 Properties

Aluminum 5086 Properties

Aluminum 5086’s chemical composition primarily includes aluminum and up to 4.5% magnesium. Other elements include:

  • Manganese: 0.2-0.7%
  • Chromium: 0.5-0.25%
  • Iron: 0.5%
  • Silicon: 0.4%
  • Copper: 0.1%
  • Zinc: 0.25%
  • Titanium: 0.15%
  • Other elements: 0.15%

The alloy has a tensile strength measuring between 275 and 350 MPa, with its highest tensile strength being achievable in cryogenic conditions. Its elongation is 12%, and its minimum stress-proof is 125 MPa. Aluminum 5086 can meet a wide range of regulations and industry standards, including MIL, SAE, ASTM, UNS, and QQ.

Use Cases for Aluminum 5086

Aluminum 5086 is an ideal material for various applications. Its corrosion resistance delivers remarkable saltwater performance, making it an ideal material for shipyards, marine components, and hulls in small boats, yachts, workboats, and patrol boats.

The alloy’s strength also makes it beneficial for military and defense applications, such as armor plating, tanks, missile components, and armored personnel carriers. It is a popular material in transportation and superstructures, but its susceptibility to stress corrosion and cracking makes it less favorable for aircraft. Other applications include TV towers, drilling rigs, and cryogenics.

Forms of Aluminum 5086

Continental Steel offers a number of different shapes and sizes of Aluminum 5086 that include:

  • Sheet
  • Coil
  • Plate
  • Pipe
  • Bar
  • Tube
  • Special extrusions

​Contact Continental Steel Today for Aluminum 5086

Aluminum 5086 delivers a wide range of beneficial properties that make it suitable for various marine and defense applications, among others. Continental Steel is an ISO 9001:2015 certified supplier of aluminum 5086 tubes, bars, plates, pipes, coils, sheets, and special extrusions to meet varying project needs. For more information, or to start your order, request a quote today.