Reference
Aluminium grades and tempers we supply.
The alloy decides whether the part bends, welds, machines or corrodes. These are the grades that move most through our yard — and if your drawing calls for another one, send it over.
Common grades
Start with what the part has to do.
Each page covers composition, tempers, indicative mechanical properties and the forms we hold that grade in.
6061 aluminium
Strong, machinable, weldable, moderately corrosion resistant. The default for machined and structural parts.
6063 aluminium
Highly extrudable, excellent anodised finish, good corrosion resistance, moderate strength.
5052 aluminium
Excellent formability and marine corrosion resistance, good weldability, poor machinability.
1100 aluminium
Outstanding formability and corrosion resistance, high thermal and electrical conductivity, low strength.
By product
Which grades come in which form.
Availability follows the form as much as the alloy — coil and sheet grades differ from plate and bar grades.
| Product | Common grades | Typical range | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extrusions | 6063 · 6101 · 1050 · 6061 · 6082 · 7075 | Profiles to 6 m, custom dies | Mill, anodised, powder-coated |
| Flat rolls | 1050 · 3003 · 5052 · 8011 | 0.2–3.0 mm, widths to 1500 mm | Mill, coated, embossed |
| Sheets | 1100 · 3003 · 5052 · 5083 · 7075 | 0.5–6 mm, 4×8 ft and 5×10 ft | Mill, PVC-filmed |
| Plates | 5083 · 6061 · 7075 | 6–200 mm, cut to size | Mill, sawn edge |
| Bars | 6061 · 6082 · 7075 · 2014 | Ø 6–200 mm; square, flat, hex | Mill, drawn |
Tempers available on request — T4, T5, T6 and H-series depending on form. Figures on this page are indicative typical values for comparison only. The mill test certificate supplied with your consignment is the governing document.
Choosing a grade
Grade questions, answered.
Worth settling before the order rather than after the part cracks.
Which aluminium grade should I order?
Start from what the part does. 6061 for machined and structural parts, 6063 for architectural extrusion, 5052 for formed sheet and panels, 1100 where the part is deep drawn or needs conductivity, 5083 where corrosion resistance comes first. Tell us the application and we will recommend an alloy and temper.
What is the difference between a T temper and an H temper?
T tempers are heat treated — the 6000 and 7000 series alloys gain strength by solution treatment and ageing. H tempers are strain hardened — the 1000, 3000 and 5000 series gain strength by being worked. That is why you see 6061-T6 but 5052-H32.
Do you supply mill test certificates?
Yes, with every consignment. The certificate covers chemical composition and mechanical properties and is traceable to the producing mill.
Can you source a grade not listed here?
Usually, yes — most of what we import is sourced to order in any case. Send the grade, temper, form and quantity and we will come back on feasibility and lead time.