Specifying 3003 or 5052 alloy aluminium? Understand the difference

Aluminium products have always been a popular choice in the construction industry and now even more so, as a solution to the recladding crisis that is currently gripping all States throughout Australia. With solid aluminium panels currently taking the lead there is more to the decision of which product to use than simply the brand name. An additional decision needs to be made regarding the right aluminium series to use – 3003 or 5052.

What is the difference and why should you care? 

5052

The 5052 alloy contains Magnesium as its main alloy and is also known as ‘marine grade’ aluminium. Typically used for marine applications, it is also easy to fabricate. Its corrosion resistance even in saltwater environments makes it beneficial to the Australian construction industry where the majority of developments are on a coastline or located in a corrosive environment. 5052 also has higher tensile strength and is considered a superior grade of alloy.

3003

This aluminium contains Manganese as its major alloying element and is an alloy with only moderate strength. It is a much softer alloy and has less tensile and impact strength than 5052.

3003 aluminium is typically used in soft drink cans, stampings, pressure vessels, builder's hardware, garage doors, awning slats, refrigerator panels, gas lines, gasoline tanks, heat exchangers, drawn and spun parts, and storage tanks.

These are just some of the reasons why the Queensland Government specifies the 5000 series alloy on all government projects. In addition to the above, the 5052 alloy outperformed 3003 in an independent NATA approved hail test, which is a particularly important consideration for Queensland and other northern States. 

At Aodeli, we considered both alloys in terms of their pros and cons when developing our SAP (Solid Aluminium Panel). Based on its superior benefits, our research and development team decided to use the 5052 alloy for this important and premium quality façade cladding product. 

With regards to the recladding and rectification market in Australia, Aodeli has two main products for architects, builders, engineers and owners to choose from: SAP (solid aluminium panel) and NCP (non-combustible panel). Both are fully compliant and tested to Australian Standards and can be seamlessly used to replace non-compliant composite panels.