Choosing the right aluminium sheet grade is key to any successful metalworking project. Different aluminium sheet grades offer varying levels of strength, corrosion resistance, weldability, and formability. Whether you’re fabricating signs, cladding walls, or cutting precision components, this guide explains the most commonly used aluminium sheet grades and how to pick the right alloy for your needs.
Understanding Aluminium Sheet Grades
Aluminium sheet grades refer to different alloy types defined by their chemical composition. These grades are grouped by series (1000 to 8000) based on their primary alloying element. You can find further technical data via the Aluminum Standards & Data 2024
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1000 Series – Pure aluminium (e.g. 1050A)
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5000 Series – Aluminium with added magnesium for strength and corrosion resistance (e.g. 5251, 5754, 5083)
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6000 Series – Aluminium with silicon and magnesium, offering strength and machinability (e.g. 6082)
Each alloy performs differently. The right grade depends on your project’s use and environment.
Aluminium Sheet Grades Comparison Chart
Below is a guide to common aluminium sheet grades, showing how each alloy performs and what types of projects they’re best suited for.
| Grade | Series | Key Features | Best For | Available on Metal Offcuts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1050A | 1000 | High purity, excellent ductility, easy to cut and bend | Decorative panels, signage, architectural pressings | ✅ Yes |
| 5251 | 5000 | Medium strength, corrosion-resistant, weldable | Outdoor projects, fabrication, signs | ☑️ Available via enquiry |
| 5754 | 5000 | Strong, corrosion-resistant, durable | Checker plate, marine, transport panels | ✅ Yes (Checker Plate) |
| 5083 | 5000 | High strength, excellent for welding | Marine structures, heavy-duty fabrication | ☑️ Available via enquiry |
| 6082 | 6000 | Good strength, machinability, heat-treatable | Structural use, industrial components | ☑️ Available via enquiry |
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✅ Yes – In stock
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☑️ Enquiry – Contact us to request
For more detail on thicknesses and weight per m², view our Sheet Metal Weight Chart to help with calculations
How to Choose the Right Aluminium Sheet Grade
Here’s how to choose the right aluminium grade for your project:
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Laser Cutting & Signs:
Go for 1050A or 5251 – both offer clean cutting and great formability. -
Outdoor or Marine Applications:
Choose 5754 or 5083 for high corrosion resistance. For more on durability, finishes, and sizing, see our 5754 aluminium checker plate thickness & finish guide. -
Craft or Decorative Work:
1050A is easy to form, polish, and cut for jewellery, modelling, and crafts. -
Structural or Industrial Use:
6082 offers strength and durability for machinery and framing.
Compare Aluminium Sheet Grades
Aluminium Grades Compared by Strength, Corrosion Resistance,Weldability, and Formability
| Grade | Strength | Corrosion Resistance | Weldability | Formability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1050A | Low | Medium | Good | Excellent |
| 5251 | Medium | High | Excellent | Very Good |
| 5754 | Medium-High | High | Excellent | Good |
| 5083 | High | Excellent | Excellent | Medium |
| 6082 | High | Medium-High | Good | Medium |
Ordering Aluminium Sheet Grades Online
At Metal Offcuts, we stock aluminium sheet in a wide range of grades, sizes, and finishes. You can order aluminium cut to size or request laser cutting for detailed signs and panels. We offer custom laser cutting for aluminium sheet, perfect for signage, enclosures, and decorative metal panels.
Once you’ve chosen the right grade, our aluminium sheet cut-to-size service makes it easy to get exactly what you need, with free trimming included.
Popular choices:
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1050A for signage and light fabrication
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5251 for indoor/outdoor fabrication
We also offer a full metal sheet cut to size service for all aluminium grades as well as:
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Free trimming
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Fast turnaround
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Expert advice
For a broader overview, see our Aluminium Sheet Buying Guide.
FAQs
What is the most common aluminium sheet grade?
1050A is widely used for its purity, ease of cutting, and excellent formability.
Which grade is best for outdoor use?
5251 and 5754 offer superior corrosion resistance for external applications.
Can aluminium sheet be laser cut?
Yes, we laser cut 1050A and 5251 for custom signage, enclosures, and craft panels.
What grade is checker plate made from?
We use 5754, known for its strength and slip resistance.
Can I order aluminium in custom sizes?
Yes! We offer cut-to-size aluminium sheet and free trimming.
Need Help Choosing the Right Aluminium Sheet Grade?
If you’re unsure which grade is best for your project, our team is here to help. Get in touch for expert advice and a tailored recommendation.
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