Aluminum Sheets & Plates

Select grade based on mechanical and corrosion requirements: 1000-series for high purity and conductivity, 3000-series for formability, 5000-series for marine corrosion resistance, and 6000-series for good strength and machinability; choose temper (O, T1–T6) reflecting whether you need annealed (soft) or heat-treated (harder) material

Thickness (gauge) depends on structural needs and tooling—thin sheets (under 1/8") bend easily, plates (1/8" and up) suited for load-bearing or milling; pick sheet dimensions that minimize waste and allow safe clamping for cutting or machining

Finishes like mill, brushed, or anodized change appearance and corrosion resistance; mill finish is lowest cost for fabrication, while anodized or polished finishes add processing cost but improve wear and aesthetics

Choose 5xxx-series alloys (e.g., 5052, 5083) for better resistance to saltwater and outdoor exposure; avoid dissimilar metal contact to prevent galvanic corrosion and consider protective coatings or anodizing in harsh environments

Use sharp carbide or high-speed steel tools, proper feeds and speeds to avoid work hardening, lubricants for drilling, and bending brakes or proper tooling to prevent cracking and distortion; support sheets to reduce vibration

Standard commercial tolerances vary by supplier and thickness; expect +/- a few thousandths of an inch for plate thickness and slightly larger allowances for cut-to-size services—check supplier specs when tight tolerances are required

Store flat on clean, dry surfaces or vertical racks to prevent warping, separate from ferrous metals, keep protective film on until fabrication, and clean with mild detergent and water to remove contaminants