May 3 2013
Topics Covered
Introduction
Chemical Composition
Physical Properties
Mechanical Properties
Other Designations
Applications
Introduction
Aluminium / aluminum alloys 5000 series are known to possess excellent corrosion resistance, workability, strength, weldability, and toughness.
Aluminium / aluminum 5556 alloy is a wrought non-heat treatable alloy type. This alloy is a filler that has good ductility and enhanced crack resistance as it contains magnesium, manganese, and zinc. It is basically used on base metals 5154, 5254, 5454 and 5456.
When exposed to temperatures over 65°C (150°F), aluminium / aluminum 5556 alloy is affected by stress corrosion cracking; however this can be solved by using special alloys and tempers.
Chemical Composition
The following table shows the chemical composition of aluminium / aluminum 5556 alloy.
|
Element |
Content (%) |
|
Aluminum, Al |
91.9-94.7 |
|
Magnesium, Mg |
4.7-5.5 |
|
Manganese, Mn |
0.50-1 |
|
Iron, Fe |
≤ 0.40 |
|
Zinc, Zn |
≤ 0.25 |
|
Silicon, Si |
≤ 0.25 |
|
Copper, Cu |
≤ 0.10 |
|
Chromium, Cr |
0.050-0.20 |
|
Titanium, Ti |
0.050-0.20 |
|
Beryllium, Be |
≤ 0.00080 |
|
Other, each |
≤ 0.050 |
|
Other, total |
≤ 0.15 |
Physical Properties
The physical properties of aluminium/aluminum 5556 alloy are outlined in the following table.
|
Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
|
Density |
2.66 g/cm³ |
0.0961 lb/in³ |
|
Melting point |
568-635°C |
1055-1175°F |
Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties of aluminium / aluminum 5556 alloy are tabulated below.
|
Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
|
Tensile strength |
317 MPa |
46 ksi |
|
Yield strength |
165 MPa |
24 ksi |
|
Elongation |
22% |
22% |
Other Designations
Equivalent materials to aluminium / aluminum 5556 alloy are listed below:
-
BS N61
-
Alcan GB-B56S
-
AWCO-283
Applications
Aluminium / aluminum 5556 alloy is primarily used with 5154, 5254, 5454 and 5456 alloys. It is also used as welding filler wire.