Chassis aluminum

[angelodp]

I have a bead on a shop that can make me the chassis I need using 50/52 aluminum. 1/8". Will that type aluminum work well.

[tubeswell]

splendid. Will be really rugged. You might want to make sure the pots etc you are using can fit through it

[Structo]

Ange I don't know anything about aluminum but I do know if you don't use the correct alloy then the bends will crack and fracture.
So I guess that means it has to be a bit softer than a harder aluminum.

I'm sure somebody here knows what to use.

Maybe ask Brian or Robert (CE chassis).

[David Root]

I believe 5052 is softer than 6062, which I seem to recall being a basic aircraft grade (6062, that is).

[martin manning]

Should be just fine. From Wikipedia:
"5052/5251/5754Aluminium alloys 5052, 5251, 5754 are very similar grades, only differing in the amount of magnesium. 5052 has 2.5% magnesium and is commonly used in the U.S.; 5251 has 2% magnesium and is commonly used in the UK; and 5754 has 3% magnesium and is commonly used in Europe. Due to their formability, corrosion resistance and weldability these grades are commonly used in pressure vessels, tanks, fitting, boat hulls, and van bodies. Their salt water corrosion resistance is better than the 1200 grade and their strength is better than the 3003 grade."

[Lonely Raven]

Form-ability being the key word there.

Ange, keep me in mind for one.

[surfsup]

I wouldnt worry about it because the more exotic, the higher the price. So unless you were quoted a figure that seems high, the aluminum will be fine.

[Zippy]

I believe 5052 is softer than 6062, which I seem to recall being a basic aircraft grade (6062, that is).

6000 and 7000 series aluminum alloys are precipitation hardened (heat treated after forming to induce and grow strengthening precipitates) - not something that one is likely to do with a chassis.

[David Root]

That makes sense. I had a chassis made some years ago when I lived in Tucson, I had a repair customer who worked in a sheet metal shop. I asked him for 1/8" thick 6062 because it was the only grade I had heard of, and it was rolled on a 1/8" radius, he said because anything less and it would crack.