Brindley Metals works hard to provide the highest quality metal products. This includes grade 5083 aluminium bar and plate. We want to ensure that everyone has the right materials to complete their projects. That is why we work so hard to source such great resources. Then we offer services to process and finish them, providing even more value.
Saltwater and metal’s relationship
For the most part, saltwater and metal cannot mix. The reason is that the salty water makes the metals corrode. It can cause damage very quickly in things like non-stainless steels and iron. What you should keep in mind is that seawater is pretty much a bath of acid that can eat away many different metals.
The mixture of salt, oxygen, and moisture is very harmful. Sodium chloride is especially aggressive. It actually breaks down the metal, weakening it until it eventually falls apart. Saltwater can corrode metal five times more quickly than fresh water. Also, the humid, salty ocean air makes metal corrode ten times quicker. This is if you compare to air with regular humidity. Bacteria in the ocean consume iron too, with the excretions turning to rust.
Electrochemical corrosion
This happens when saltwater and metal come together. Metal ions end up dissolving in water. Also, the seawater conducts electricity and holds ions. Said ions attract others originating from separate compounds. With this corrosion, electrons from differing compounds become attracted to the metallic ions. Saltwater will attack your metal and corrosion will happen.
Another form of corrosion that appears here is anaerobic. This also happens when metal ends up exposed to saltwater for long enough. It leaves behind deposits that hold sulphates. They surround the metal while it sits in the salty water. Hydrogen sulphide gets generated, which then corrodes your metals. Bacteria in the water makes use of the hydrogen to corrode the metal too. Between the bacteria, sulphates, and ions, your metal will face attack from every angle when it is in saltwater.
Aluminium and seawater
There is a reason why we provide items like grade 5083 aluminium bar and plate. It is because the metal can resist saltwater’s negative effects. It works even better with the right kind of finishing.
Aluminium does an outstanding job of resisting corrosion. Even in the event it does corrode, the thin oxide coating that forms provides a protective layer. Aluminium oxide is also impermeable.
Alloys of aluminium are going to perform differently in saltwater settings though. If you are using the metal in these environments, the best ones to use would be the 5000 series, including 5083. The strength of the materials will increase with the magnesium content.
Saying this, you must remember that salts are still highly corrosive. When saltwater and air encounter aluminium, they can result in the white, chalky coating of aluminium oxide. They can also cause unattractive pitting. However, there is a simple way for you to safeguard the metal and stop the issue; you need to use a protective coating.
Merging aluminium’s natural corrosion resistance with protective coatings is often enough to keep the metal in top condition. This is why people living and working in saltwater settings favour it. A coating stops the water or air from getting to the metal so it will not corrode.
Powder coating
Painting aluminium gives you many design options here. But, you will need to attend to any cracking, scratches, or flaking to keep your metal safe. Or you may be able to avoid it all if you choose to powder-coat aluminium.
For exteriors that see frequent exposure, powder coating is a wonderful option. The dry powder contains a number of additives such as polymer resins, pigments, and more. You apply it to your item via electrostatic spray deposition. A curing oven turns the powder into a hard, smooth coating.
The process supplies you with a durable finish. This minimises maintenance problems and reduces saltwater’s effects on aluminium. The process is efficient, flexible, and you can apply it in any colour, as well as multiple finishes.
Uses
Aluminium is very popular when it comes to shipbuilding, especially high speed ships and small leisure boats. Manufacturers often choose it because it is strong but lightweight. As a result, using it for decks and structures can reduce weight and increase speed. Plus, as we said it has the capacity to resist saltwater and its corrosive elements. That can mean longer service life for vessels.
On top of this you can use the metal for a wide array of other marine products. This includes machinery on vessels or for coastal or offshore use. Ladders are another good option. You can also use it for hatches, bulkheads, and more.
Of the various aluminium alloys you can choose, 5083 is a top option. Manufacturers primarily temper it to improve the properties even more. The most common ones are h116, h112, and h321.
The easy way to order grade 5083 aluminium bar and plate
At Brindley Metals, we have gained a reputation for supplying the finest materials, including aluminium, stainless steel, brass, high purity silvers, and more. The range of alloys we can supply is exceptional, so customers can find what they need.
We are particularly proud to offer grade 5083 aluminium bar and plate that can work well in saltwater settings. If you have any interest in our merchandise and want to find out more, feel free to call us. A central part of our service is we are always happy to recommend resources.