Aluminum 5086 or 5052 plate?

I'm planning another Aluminum skiff to be used in salt water. I have been using 5086 plate, but I'm wondering if 5052 wouldn't be a better choice. My thought is 5052 may take the flexing a little better since it is softer. My concern is that since it is softer it may not be as durable. Also I plan to have 4 crimps placed in the bottom and 1 crimp on each side. The shop says they can crimp 5086 if it has a certain heat rating.

I think a lot of builders use 5052 because it is cheaper.

Looking for any opinions.

Danny Ayo

 

These links may help to clear the thoughts:

http://www.lincolnelectric.com/knowledge/articles/content/comistakes.asp
http://www.falcon-metals.com/UsefulInfo/AluminumCharacteristics.htm
http://www.amcastle.com/Download/QG121.pdf

5052 is not as strong as the 5086. If you want stronger aluminum, try 5083 or 5456 series. 5083 is cheaper but not as good in corrosion in marine envirnoment.

The most important thing is weldability. Some metal is strong in the preweld state and tamper hurts them like the 6000 series intended for riveting for plane construction.

Peter

 

thanks Peter,

I checked out the links. The information on weldability was informative.

Danny Ayo

 

Hello Dan,

I decided to use 5052 on my 28' marine sportfishing boat.
Basically came down for economic reasons. 5052 in my area is sooo much less expensive i could increase my thkness of my hull to compensate. I increased the thickness of my hull by 1/16" to make my hull more commercial-type (hull thk .188 to .250 on bottom).

My research included a book called "aluminum boats" by Kaiser Aluminum. Its out of print but available at boatdesigns.com. No not assoc with them in any way except i bought my plans there. Basically there is 5083,5085 or 5052 all. Also improtant to use 5356 electrode instead of the common 4043. Also use MIG for welding hull to reduce distortion.

Post back for reply

 

I too am planning a Duck Skiff but I do not know where to find the material. The boat will be 14'x36" either out of 5052 or 5086, still haven't decided and since I do not know where to order from, I do not know the price differences. Any help out there?

 

call these people, if they cannot help you they know who can in your area. 5052 is quite soft. If you going to be hitting bottom go with 5086.
http://www.hadco-metal.com/

 

First Q to ask the supplier, is the 5052 marine grade?

 

Thanks alot guys.