Use the alloy that is appropriate for the mechanical loads. As suggested, alclad is nice. Sheet metal in the US is usually AISI 5052 with a H32 temper. It bends and welds nicely and is easy to find and has some mechanical strength. AISI 6061 in a T condition of 3 or greater (T3, T6, T651, etc) is nice, has better strength, but welding requires a solution heat treat and aging to recover mechanical properties near the welds. Bolting/ bonding/ riveting is better for this alloy and most any 6000 or 7000 series. The 7000 alloys are typically not suitable for welding, although it can be done.
Alloys in the 1000 and 3000 range should be avoided, they are more decorative than mechanical. 2000 series alloys are similar in mechanical properties to 7000 series, if a bit lower in strength. 4000 series can be used but it is rare in sheet and structural forms. It is what was used on at least the earlier Acura/Honda NSX aluminum bodied cars. Seth [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: > > Thanks listmembers for all this clarfication on nicads.Before I buikd the > container next week one more question.Is there a particular alloy alluminum > that would be better for this app?I had planned to powercoat the box anyway > for its insulating properties, Dennis > Kilowatt Berube -- vze3v25q@verizondotnet
