5454 H116 Aluminum Sheet Plate for Marine
When it comes to materials ideal for marine applications, the unique demands of the ocean environment push the boundaries of performance. Saltwater's corrosive nature, constant moisture, and mechanical wear necessitate materials that not only resist deterioration but also maintain mechanical integrity over prolonged exposure. Enter the 5454 H116 aluminum sheet plate—a specialized material designed to thrive in marine atmospheres while pushing the limits of strength and reliability.
5454 Aluminum Alloy: A Closer Look
The 5xxx series aluminum alloys, known for their excellent corrosion resistance and moderate-to-high strength, lean heavily on magnesium as the primary alloying element. Specifically, 5454 contains roughly 4.5-5.0% magnesium, augmented by trace elements that enhance its properties without compromising corrosion resistance.
The chemical composition of 5454 aluminum is a big reason why it’s regarded as a marine favourite:
| Element | Typical Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Magnesium (Mg) | 4.5 to 5.0 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.5 to 1.0 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 0.05 to 0.2 |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.4 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.25 |
| Copper (Cu) | ≤ 0.1 |
| Zinc (Zn) | ≤ 0.25 |
| Titanium (Ti) | ≤ 0.15 |
| Aluminum (Al) | Balance |
Magnesium lends strength and excellent corrosion resistance, especially crucial for saltwater environments, while manganese enhances milestones in toughness and workability.
What Does the H116 Temper Mean?
In aluminum terminology, the temper designations describe mechanical and physical conditions achieved through controlled processing like cold working and heat treatment.
- H1xx series refers to strain-hardened tempers (i.e., work hardened without subsequent thermal treatments).
- H116 is a marine-specific temper for alloys that are strain-hardened and naturally aged, offering improved resistant qualities.
The advantage of the H116 temper specifically for marine aluminum sheets is its optimized resistance to exfoliation corrosion—delamination layers forming under surface corrosion. This makes the aluminum sheet more reliable in hulls, superstructures, and offshore platforms.
Mechanical Properties of 5454-H116 Aluminum Sheet
| Property | Value | Test Method/Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Ultimate Tensile Strength | 290 - 330 MPa | ASTM B209, ASTM B928 |
| Yield Strength (0.2% offset) | ≥ 180 MPa | ASTM B209 |
| Elongation at Break | ≥ 12% (depending on thickness) | ASTM E8 |
| Hardness (Brinell) | ~80 HB | ASTM E10 |
| Density | 2.66 g/cm³ | - |
Why 5454 H116 Is Ideal for Marine Applications
Superior Corrosion ResistanceSaltwater and marine climates yin-yang the metal surfaces. 5454 H116’s balanced magnesium and manganese composition provides natural protection against pitting, intergranular, and exfoliation corrosion, often observed in aluminum alloys near seawater.
High Structural Strength with Good DuctilityMarine vessels and offshore rigs demand materials that resist mechanical stresses from waves, impacts, and pressure changes. The H116 temper ensures the alloy is strain-hardened to retain strength without sacrificing flexibility or toughness necessary under dynamic loading.
Excellent WeldabilityFabrication often involves welding sheets for tanks, hulls, and bulkheads. 5454 alloy’s chemical properties minimize hot cracking during welding operations, and the H116 temper’s characteristics maintain corrosion resistance post-weld, reducing the need for extensive post-weld treatment.
Lightweight, Improving Fuel EfficiencyAluminum’s low density compared to steel helps reduce overall vessel weight, which in turn improves fuel economy—a growing concern for shipbuilders aiming to meet green operational targets.
Implementation Standards and Usage Scenarios
Common standards guiding the manufacture and use of 5454 H116 aluminum sheet include:
- ASTM B209: standard specification for aluminum and aluminum-alloy sheet and plate.
- AA (Aluminum Association) Alloy Designation.
- ISO 6361: wrought aluminum and aluminum alloy sheets, strips, and plates for marine use.
Practical uses often seen in:
- Ship decks and superstructures
- Hull outfitting and stanchions
- Cargo hold liners
- Offshore oil and gas platforms
- Marine pipes and tanks
Proper Handling and Care
Although 5454 H116 offers robust magnesium-based corrosion protection, care is necessary during processing and service:
- Apply protective coatings (paints or anodizing) where additional surface defense is required.
- Avoid mixed metal contact with dissimilar metals that promote galvanic corrosion.
- Use correct welding procedures recommended for marine aerospace-grade aluminum to prevent heat-affected zone cracking.
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