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Marine grade means a specific alloy that resists corrosion, and does not deform easily. Alloys in the 5000 series as well as some 6000 are considered marine grade.

5000 and 6000 series aluminums are considered marine grade. Also called T5 and T6. T6 is harder but has shorter life. Yes it does wear out like an old 727. The old DC-3's never wear out because they were made with T3, but they do corrode much faster and are not as strong. T5 is my suggestion for almost anything unless you can use a thicker T3. With any of these remember that disssimilar metals will destroy each other (the harder metals eat the softer metals). So if the rest of the boat is T5, use T5 exclusively. Ask any Aviation Metalsmith and they will babble all day about it, 


2052, 5083, 5086 aluminum, belongs to 5000 series alloy and is one of the key products of 5000 series aluminum plate. The main alloying elements of 5086 aluminum alloy are magnesium and silicon. The products have high corrosion resistance, good weld-ability and medium strength. 5086 aluminum can be used in the manufacture of sheet metal, metallurgy, and electrical enclosures for transportation vehicles and ships. Compared with other aluminum products, the anti-corrosion property of 5086 aluminum is an important reason for its wide application.

Therefore, 5086 aluminum sheet plate has also become “rust-proof aluminum plate”. Aluminum-magnesium alloys and aluminum-manganese alloys are collectively referred to as rust-proof aluminum because the alloy components in between have their anti-corrosion properties.


5086 aluminum plate sheet is one of the hot products that has gradually emerged with the marine economy and plays an important role in the international marine market. Haomei Aluminum 5083 and 5086 aluminum sheet were certified by DNV GL and obtained relevant certificates issued by the Norwegian classification society. As we all know, DNV certification is a universal license for the international aluminum market. Typical uses of 5086 aluminum sheet plate is where high corrosion resistance, good weld-ability and moderate strength are required, such as weldable parts for ships, automobiles, aircraft panels. And pressure vessels, refrigeration equipment, television towers that require strict fire protection, mounting equipment, transportation equipment, missile parts, armor, etc.

Marine grade metals are specially treated to withstand use in water or wet environments. Usually, this is done by adding special alloys to the metal to make it corrosion-resistant. Most metals, such as aluminum, have marine grades.

Structural steel is the traditional material used in the shipbuilding industry due to its excellent mechanical properties and low manufacturing costs. However, the increasing demand for larger, yet light ships made designers search for alternative materials. Aluminum alloys were a great choice because they provided high corrosion resistance, weighed less, and were considered economical in the long run.

There are many grades of commercially available aluminum. Marine-grade aluminum are alloys that can handle exposure to sun and water due to the elements that are alloyed with the aluminum. Magnesium and silicon are the primary additions to bring the alloys up to marine grade. Some marine grades are more tolerant of salt water, which brings extra chemical stress to the metal.

Marine grade aluminum is used for boats, but can also be found on docks, railings, ladders, stairs, and other furnishings or items that are usually used on or near the water. Marine grades of aluminum can also be used in tanks or storage facilities: they are not exclusively used in marine situations.

Although aluminum is commonly used for floating watercraft, it is rarely used for submarines. The compression forces involved in diving wreak havoc on aluminum, causing eventual fatigue and cracking. Additionally, the constant exposure to sea water without air speeds corrosion.