What is Marine Grade Aluminum?
Marine grade aluminum, also referred to as marine aluminum alloy, is a type of aluminum alloy specifically designed to withstand the harsh marine environments. It is a group of aluminum alloys that belong to the 5000 series, 6000 series, and 7000 series, which are categorized based on their composition.
What makes Marine Grade Aluminum different?
Here are some key differences between marine grade aluminum and commercial grade aluminum:
- Corrosion resistance: Marine grade aluminum, particularly the 5000 series, has a specific corrosion-resistant coating that protects it from seawater and saltwater corrosion.
- Strength-toweight ratio: Maritime applications require a high strength-to-weight ratio to ensure the structure can float and withstand harsh weather conditions and waves.
- Resistance to fatigue: Marine grade aluminum is known for its resistance to structural fatigue, which is necessary for marine applications where repeatable stress and strain cannot be avoided.
- Temperature resistance: Marine grade aluminum can function effectively in a wide temperature range, from ice-cold to tropical-hot environments.
Benefits of Marine Grade Aluminum
As a result of its outstanding properties, marine grade aluminum offers numerous benefits, highlighted below:
- Excellent corrosion resistance: Marine environment is known for its saline and acidic conditions, damaging most materials. Marine grade aluminum preserves its integrity and durability because of its corrosion-resistant components.
- Lightest weight: Marine grade aluminum is considered the lightest weight corrosion-resistant material, making them ideal for boat and pontoon construction.
- High strength: High-strength marine grade alloys can withstand heavy maritime loads, ensuring the utmost safety for passengers and payloads.
- Low fabrication costs: Marine grade aluminum is designed for easy fabrication, featuring a high form ability, which reduces manufacturing waste and costs.
- Recyclable: *Marine grade aluminum’ is fully recyclable.
Common Applications of Marine Grade Aluminum
Marine grade aluminum is widely accepted in various maritime industries worldwide, including:
- Construction of boats, yachts, and ships
- Pontoon and dock structure
- Marine hardware supply
- Offshore industrial equipment
- Ship engines and components
- Inflatable boats and emergency vessels
Marine Grade Aluminum Alloys Breakdown
Here’s the breakdown of the most critical marine grade aluminum alloys currently used:
Code | Composition Percentage | Properties Summary |
---|---|---|
5083 | High strength, corrosion | |
resistance, weldibility | ||
6060 | High strength-moderate corrosion | |
* 6061 | . | High strength-mid corrosion |
* 6463 | High strengh-high corrosion |
*: 5000 series – 5% magnesium maximum, 0.0% chromium, 400-600 series – Copper, silicon, manganese alloyed
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