3004 Aluminum vs 5052 Aluminum

3004 aluminum alloy is an alloy in the wrought aluminium-manganese family (3000 or 3xxx series). It is similar to the 3003 alloy, except for the addition of approximately 1% magnesium. It can be cold worked (but not, unlike some other types of aluminium alloys, heat treated) to produce tempers with a higher strength but a lower ductility. Like most other aluminium-manganese alloys, 3003 is a general-purpose alloy with moderate strength, good workability, and good corrosion resistance. It is commonly rolled and extruded, but typically not forged. As a wrought alloy, it is not used in casting.

The alloy 3004 is commonly used in the making of beverage cans. It was developed to satisfy the need for thinner gauges in can-stock, and thereby to some extent replaced its predecessor 3003 alloy in the making of beverage cans. Can-stock can be made thinner due to the addition of 1% magnesium, which contributes in solid solution strengthening.

5052-H32 Aluminum Sheet Superior corrosion resistance, good weldability, with excellent formability, makes 5052 Aluminum Sheet a common choice for chemical, marine or saltwater applications. 5052 Aluminum Sheet applications include: tanks, marine hardware, boat hulls, etc.