ALUMINUM AL-5083

2026.08.28

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ALUMINUM AL-5083 is a high-performance aluminum-magnesium alloy from the 5xxx series. It is widely selected for applications that require high corrosion resistance, good strength, excellent weldability, and reliable performance in marine environments. Unlike heat-treatable alloys, aluminum 5083 gains its strength mainly through magnesium alloying and strain hardening.

5083 aluminum is especially well known for shipbuilding, offshore structures, marine equipment, LNG storage, pressure-related applications, and other demanding environments. Common tempers include H111, H112, H116, H321, H32, and O. Among them, H116 and H321 are widely specified for certified marine structural applications.

 ALUMINUM AL-5083

1. What Is Aluminium 5083?

Aluminium 5083 is a non-heat-treatable aluminum-magnesium alloy in the 5xxx series. Magnesium is the main alloying element, with a typical content of 4.0–4.9%. Manganese and chromium are also added to improve strength, grain stability, weldability, and corrosion resistance.

The main advantage of aluminum 5083 alloy is its balance of strength and corrosion resistance. It performs particularly well in chloride and seawater environments. This makes it a common material for ship hulls, marine structures, offshore equipment, and other applications exposed to saltwater for long periods.

5083 is not strengthened through heat treatment like 6061-T6. Instead, its mechanical properties are controlled through alloy composition, rolling, cold working, and annealing. Different tempers therefore provide different combinations of strength and formability.

Why is 5083 aluminum widely used?

The main reasons include excellent seawater corrosion resistance, good weldability, useful structural strength, good formability in suitable tempers, and excellent low-temperature performance. 5083-H116 and H321 are particularly important when marine certification and corrosion-resistance requirements apply.

 

aluminum 5083 alloyaluminum 5083 sheet


2. What Is 5083 Aluminium Used For?

5083 aluminum is mainly used where corrosion resistance and structural performance are both important. Marine applications are its most important market, but the alloy is also suitable for cryogenic equipment, offshore structures, and fabricated components.

Application

Typical Temper

Why 5083 Is Selected

Ship hull platingH116Seawater corrosion resistance and structural strength
BulkheadsH116 / H321Strength, corrosion resistance, and SCC resistance
Fast boats and patrol craftH116Light weight and reliable marine performance
LNG cargo tanksH116 / H321Excellent cryogenic strength and ductility
Offshore structuresH116Marine atmosphere resistance and weight saving
Marine equipmentH32 / H111Good combination of strength and forming ability

For shipbuilding, 5083-H116 is widely specified for hull bottom plating and primary structural components. Marine projects may also require H321, depending on the project specification and classification society requirements. The source material identifies H116 and H321 as the main marine structural tempers. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

5083 is also used in LNG applications because its strength and ductility remain excellent at very low temperatures. At −196°C, 5083-H116 can reach approximately 380–420 MPa tensile strength while maintaining elongation above 20% according to the supplied material. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

 

3. What Is the Difference Between 5083 and 6061 Aluminum?

The main difference in al 5083 vs 6061 is the alloy system and the performance balance. 5083 is an aluminum-magnesium alloy designed for corrosion resistance and welding. 6061 is an aluminum-magnesium-silicon alloy that can be heat treated to achieve high strength.

Property

5083 Aluminum

6061 Aluminum

Better Choice

Alloy typeAl-MgAl-Mg-SiDepends on application
Heat treatableNoYes6061 for heat treatment
Seawater corrosion resistanceExcellentGood5083
WeldabilityExcellentGood5083
FormabilityGood to excellentModerate in T65083 for forming
Typical applicationMarine structuresStructural and machined partsApplication dependent

For seawater exposure, 5083 aluminum properties make it a better choice than 6061 in many marine structural applications. The supplied technical material specifically notes that the higher copper and silicon content of 6061 reduces its corrosion-film performance in chloride environments. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

6061 is still an excellent alloy when high strength, machining, dimensional stability, and heat treatment are the main priorities. The correct choice should therefore be based on the actual service environment and fabrication requirements.

 

4. Is 5083 Aluminium Strong?

Yes. 5083 aluminium provides high strength for a non-heat-treatable alloy. Its strength depends strongly on the temper. H116 and H321 provide significantly higher strength than H111 or annealed O temper.

5083 Aluminium Mechanical Properties

TemperTensile StrengthYield StrengthElongationHardness
H111245 MPa125 MPa16%~65 HB
H112275 MPa145 MPa14%~70 HB
H116275–350 MPa215–285 MPa10–16%~75 HB
H321275–350 MPa215–285 MPa10–16%~75 HB
H32228–305 MPa180–255 MPa12–16%~70 HB
O270 MPa115 MPa22%~65 HB

These values are from the supplied 5083 technical material and are presented as the mechanical-property ranges for the listed tempers. H116 and H321 provide the highest strength range in the table, while O temper provides the highest elongation. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

5083 H111

Aluminium 5083 H111 is a lightly cold-worked temper. It provides a useful balance between strength and formability. The supplied data lists a tensile strength of approximately 245 MPa, yield strength of 125 MPa, and elongation of 16%.

H111 is suitable when some post-delivery forming is required. It can be used for curved hull plates and other components where the material needs to retain good forming ability before welding or final assembly. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

 

5. 5083 Aluminium Composition

The aluminum alloy 5083 composition is designed around magnesium as the main strengthening element. Manganese and chromium provide additional structural and metallurgical benefits, while copper, iron, silicon, and zinc are controlled.

ElementContentMain RoleImportance
AlBalanceBase metalLow density and natural oxide film
Mg4.0–4.9%Primary strengthenerImproves strength and marine corrosion resistance
Mn0.4–1.0%Grain refinerSupports strength and weldability
Cr0.05–0.25%Grain stabilizerHelps control grain growth and corrosion behavior
Fe≤0.40%ImpurityControlled to limit intermetallic formation
Si≤0.40%ImpurityControlled for toughness and corrosion performance
Cu≤0.10%ImpurityStrictly controlled because copper reduces seawater corrosion resistance
Zn≤0.25%ImpurityControlled for corrosion and SCC performance
Ti≤0.15%Grain refinerRefines the as-cast grain structure

The relatively high magnesium content is one of the key reasons for the excellent corrosion resistance of 5083. The supplied material also emphasizes the strict control of copper, iron, and silicon because excessive levels can reduce corrosion performance. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

 

6. 5083 Aluminium Properties and Corrosion Resistance

The most important 5083 aluminium properties are corrosion resistance, strength, weldability, formability, and low-temperature performance. Among these properties, resistance to seawater is particularly important.

Aluminum naturally forms a thin oxide film when exposed to air or water. This film helps protect the underlying metal. The magnesium-rich composition of 5083 supports a strong corrosion-resistant surface, making the alloy suitable for prolonged exposure to chloride environments.

H116 and H321 are especially important for marine structures because their processing is designed to provide resistance to exfoliation corrosion and stress-corrosion cracking. These properties are critical for ship hulls and other structures that remain in marine environments for long periods. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Weldability of 5083 Aluminum

5083 can be welded using MIG and TIG processes. ER5356 and ER5183 filler wires are commonly specified for structural welding. The supplied technical material recommends avoiding ER4043 for structural 5083 marine welds because of its lower weld strength and different corrosion behavior. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

 

7. 5083 H111, H116 and H321 Temper Comparison

Choosing the correct temper is important when buying an aluminum 5083 sheet. The alloy number alone does not fully define the material. H111, H116 and H321 provide different processing conditions and are used for different applications.

TemperMain CharacteristicsTypical ApplicationCertification
H111Lightly cold worked, good formabilityFormed marine components and curved platesProject dependent
H116High strength and marine corrosion resistanceShip hulls and primary marine structuresCommon marine grade
H321Stable marine structural performanceShipbuilding and marine structuresProject dependent

H116 and H321 have the same strength range in the supplied data. They are produced through different process routes but are designed to meet the requirements for marine structural applications. If a project specification names H321, it should not be replaced with H116 without confirming acceptance. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

 

8. Aluminium 5083 Price per Kg

The aluminium 5083 price per kg depends on alloy temper, thickness, width, quantity, processing requirements, certification, and delivery terms. There is no single fixed price for all 5083 products.

5083 generally costs more than common general-purpose alloys such as 3003 and 5052. The premium comes from its higher magnesium content, tighter process control, and additional testing when marine certification is required. The supplied material estimates a typical 15–30% premium over 5052-H32 for comparable dimensions, while certified 5083-H116 can cost around 10–20% more than commercial-grade material of the same specification. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

What affects 5083 aluminum price?

  • Alloy and temper, such as H111, H116 or H321
  • Thickness and sheet dimensions
  • Total order quantity
  • Surface and cutting requirements
  • Marine certification requirements
  • 3.1 or 3.2 mill test certificate requirements
  • Destination and shipping terms

Thin 5083 sheet can have a higher price per kilogram than common plate thicknesses because additional rolling and processing may be required. Certified H116 and H321 material also carries additional inspection and testing costs. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

 

9. Aluminium 5083 Data Sheet and Standard Specifications

A complete aluminium 5083 data sheet should include the alloy, temper, chemical composition, mechanical properties, dimensions, applicable standards, and certification requirements. For marine projects, the temper and certification are particularly important.

SpecificationTypical Range / OptionNotes
Alloy50835xxx series aluminum-magnesium alloy
TemperH111, H112, H116, H321, H32, OSelect according to application
ThicknessApprox. 1.5 mm to over 200 mmProject-dependent availability
Common marine thickness4–20 mm5–12 mm is commonly used
Common widths1000, 1219, 1500, 2000, 2500 mmWider sizes available from suitable mills
Common lengths2000, 2438, 3000, 6000 mmCustom lengths can be discussed

The supplied technical material gives a broad 5083 sheet and plate thickness range from approximately 1.5 mm to over 200 mm, with common marine hull thicknesses concentrated around 5–12 mm. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

 

10. EN AW 5083 Equivalent Material

EN AW 5083 refers to the European designation for the same 5083 aluminum alloy family. When comparing material between different standards, buyers should check the complete specification rather than comparing only the alloy number.

The temper, thickness, mechanical properties, chemical composition, and applicable product standard should all be confirmed. For marine applications, certification requirements are also important. A supplier should provide the appropriate mill test certificate when the project requires certified material.

 

11. How to Choose the Right Aluminum 5083 Sheet

Before ordering an aluminum 5083 sheet, buyers should define the complete material specification. This prevents problems with strength, forming, certification, and delivery.

  • Specify alloy: 5083
  • Specify temper: H111, H116, H321, H32, or another required condition
  • Confirm thickness in millimeters
  • Confirm width and length
  • State the required quantity
  • Identify the final application
  • Confirm whether marine certification is required
  • Specify DNV, ABS, LR, BV, CCS, or another required classification society when applicable
  • Confirm whether a 3.1 or 3.2 MTC is required

For certified marine material, the supplied source recommends confirming the exact temper, certification body, dimensions, quantity, trade terms, delivery date, and special packing or marking requirements in the RFQ. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

 

12. Why Choose 5083 Aluminum for Marine Applications?

5083 combines several properties that are difficult to obtain in one aluminum alloy. It provides high corrosion resistance in seawater, good structural strength, reliable weldability, and strong performance at low temperatures.

For marine construction, H116 and H321 provide the required balance of strength and corrosion resistance. For applications requiring more forming, H111 and other suitable tempers may be considered. The correct temper should always follow the project specification.

The supplied material also identifies classification-certified 5083 as an important option for shipbuilding and offshore projects, with DNV, ABS, LR, BV, and CCS certification available depending on project requirements. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

 

13. Frequently Asked Questions About ALUMINUM AL-5083

What is aluminium 5083?

Aluminium 5083 is a non-heat-treatable aluminum-magnesium alloy in the 5xxx series. It is known for high corrosion resistance, good strength, excellent weldability, and strong performance in marine and low-temperature applications.

What is 5083 aluminum used for?

5083 aluminum is widely used for ship hull plating, bulkheads, decks, fast boats, patrol vessels, offshore structures, marine equipment, and LNG cargo tanks. It is selected when corrosion resistance, weldability, strength, and low-temperature performance are important.

What is the difference between 5083 and 6061 aluminum?

5083 is an aluminum-magnesium alloy with excellent marine corrosion resistance and weldability. 6061 is a heat-treatable aluminum-magnesium-silicon alloy that offers high strength and good machinability. 5083 is generally preferred for seawater and marine structural applications, while 6061 is often selected for structural and machined components where heat-treated strength is important.

Is 5083 aluminium strong?

Yes. 5083 provides high strength for a non-heat-treatable aluminum alloy. Depending on temper, tensile strength can reach approximately 275–350 MPa. H116 and H321 provide the highest strength range among the common tempers listed in this guide.

What is 5083 H111 aluminum?

5083 H111 is a lightly cold-worked temper with good formability. The supplied data lists approximately 245 MPa tensile strength, 125 MPa yield strength, and 16% elongation. It can be considered for applications where forming is more important than maximum strength.

Is 5083 aluminum suitable for seawater?

Yes. Seawater corrosion resistance is one of the main reasons 5083 is widely used in marine structures. H116 and H321 are particularly important when marine structural and corrosion-resistance requirements apply.

How much does 5083 aluminum cost per kg?

The price per kg depends on alloy temper, thickness, dimensions, quantity, certification, processing, and delivery terms. Certified H116 or H321 material normally costs more than commercial-grade material because of additional inspection and testing.

 

14. Get an ALUMINUM AL-5083 Quote

If you are looking for ALUMINUM AL-5083 sheet or plate, provide the alloy, temper, thickness, width, length, quantity, application, and certification requirements in your inquiry. This information allows the supplier to provide a more accurate price and delivery schedule.

For marine projects, clearly state whether you need 5083-H116 or 5083-H321 and whether DNV, ABS, LR, BV, CCS, 3.1 MTC, or 3.2 MTC documentation is required. A complete specification helps avoid material substitution and certification problems. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Contact us (zxaluminum01@gmail.com ) with your required specification for 5083 aluminum sheet, plate, marine-grade aluminum, or custom sizes. We can confirm available tempers, dimensions, certification options, and current pricing according to your project requirements.