5083 vs 5086 Aluminum: Which Marine Alloy Do You Need?
When specifying aluminum for marine and naval applications — hull plating, deck structures, naval vessel components — the choice almost always comes down to 5083 or 5086. Both are 5xxx series aluminum-magnesium alloys with excellent saltwater corrosion resistance and good weldability.
What They Have in Common
Both 5083 and 5086 are non-heat-treatable alloys. Both have excellent resistance to saltwater and marine atmospheric corrosion. Both are readily weldable and meet the requirements of ASTM B928 for marine structural aluminum.
Key Differences
Category | 5083 | 5086 |
Strength | 5083 generally has higher tensile and yield strength in the H116 and H321 tempers most commonly specified for marine structural applications. | 5083 generally has higher tensile and yield strength in the H116 and H321 tempers most commonly specified for marine structural applications. |
Availability | 5083 is significantly more widely available globally than 5086. It is the default marine aluminum alloy in most markets, with generally shorter lead times. | 5083 is significantly more widely available globally than 5086. |
Applications | 5083-H116 and 5083-H321 are the standard specifications for structural hull plating on commercial and naval vessels. | 5086 is used in some naval programs and pressure vessel applications where its composition is preferred. |
Which Should You Specify?
For most commercial and naval marine structural applications, 5083-H116 or 5083-H321 is the right choice. If your program specification calls for 5086, specify accordingly.
Ye Fong Aluminium ‘s Marine Shipbuilding Aluminum Supply
Taiwan Ye Fong Aluminium supplies 5083-H116, 5083-H321, 5086-H116, and 5086-H321 in plate, bar, and seamless tube forms, with ABS type approval.
Contact us at https://www.ye-fong.com/contact if you have any further questions.