Aluminum 5052 (AlMg2.5)

Physical properties

Laser processing

Laser marking does not generate hazardous fumes. In case of fiber laser cutting, possible release of magnesium oxide in very small quantities.

CO₂: High reflectance: CO2 cutting is impossible at maker level. Marking requires chemical marking sprays (Cermark) as with other aluminums.

Diode: Impossible to cut or mark directly with diode lasers due to high reflectance.

Fiber: Good fiber laser marking and engraving. Contrast is better than 1050 thanks to the greater surface hardness imparted by magnesium.

CNC / milling processing

Good machinability, significantly better than 1050 thanks to greater hardness. Still subject to built-up edge if appropriate cutters are not used. Prefer 2-flute aluminum cutters with high helix angle. Air blast is generally sufficient for cooling.

Post-processing

Sanding: Good sandability. Use wet silicon carbide paper. Excellent fine-grit finishing (400–1200) before anodizing.

Primer: For exterior painting apply aluminum etch primer. The alloy has excellent marine corrosion resistance thanks to magnesium.

Gluing: Bondable with two-component structural epoxies after degreasing with acetone or isopropanol.

Over time: Excellent corrosion resistance, superior to 6061 and 6082 in marine and saline environments. Magnesium provides chloride resistance. Ideal for nautical and marine applications.

Common defects

• Built-up edge when machined with non-aluminium cutters or at too-low feed rates
• Difficulty bending at higher thicknesses — may crack along the rolling grain if bent perpendicular to the rolling direction

Safety

Recommended PPE: eye_protection, mask_p1

Fine dust potentially flammable like all aluminums. Use extraction. Cut edges are sharp: wear gloves.

Availability and formats

Commercial formats: sheets 0.5–6mm, strips for deep drawing, bodywork sheets

Related materials

Sources

• EN 573-3 — Aluminium and aluminium alloys (EN AW-5052)
• MatWeb — Aluminum 5052-H32 Alloy Datasheet