AlMg3 aluminium sheets – technical data and areas of application

AlMg3 aluminium sheets are among the most versatile materials in the industrial environment. Their high corrosion resistance, excellent weldability and solid strength make them the first choice for applications in shipbuilding, vehicle construction and mechanical engineering. The alloy, also known under the designation EN AW-5754, is particularly valued for its seawater resistance and offers a balanced combination of load-bearing capacity and ease of processing.

Properties of AlMg3 aluminium sheets

AlMg3 consists mainly of about 96.2% aluminium and 2.6 to 3.6% magnesium. Minute amounts of manganese, chromium, iron, silicon, zinc and titanium specifically improve the material properties. This composition ensures an optimal balance between corrosion protection, weldability and mechanical load-bearing capacity.

The material has a density of around 2.66 g/cm³ and achieves a Brinell hardness of about 65 HB. The tensile strength varies between 190 and 300 MPa depending on processing. The yield strength lies between 80 and 215 MPa. With an elongation at break of at least 12%, AlMg3 remains dimensionally stable even under load. Cold forming can further increase the strength without impairing the excellent corrosion resistance. These properties make AlMg3 particularly interesting for lightweight constructions where both stability and low weight are required.

Compared with many other aluminium alloys, AlMg3 stands out through above-average resistance to seawater, industrial atmospheres and various chemicals. Even after welding, the protective properties are largely retained.

TIG and MIG welding processes in particular are eminently suitable for processing. TIG welding (tungsten inert gas welding) produces particularly clean seams, while MIG welding (metal inert gas welding) enables more efficient working processes on larger components.

The behaviour of AlMg3 in mechanical machining such as milling or turning is also to be assessed positively, as it enables clean chip formation and good surface qualities. Suitable tools and adapted cutting speeds allow highly precise results to be achieved.

Technical data at a glance

Property	Value
Density	approx. 2.66 g/cm³
Tensile strength	190–300 MPa
Yield strength	80–215 MPa
Elongation at break	≥ 12%
Brinell hardness	approx. 65 HB
Weldability	very good
Corrosion resistance	very high
Main alloying constituent	magnesium (approx. 3%)

Typical areas of application for AlMg3

In shipbuilding, AlMg3 is indispensable due to its seawater resistance. It is used for ship hulls, superstructures, decks and platforms and offers reliable protection even under many years of stress. Through the combination of lightness and corrosion resistance, AlMg3 contributes significantly to increasing the efficiency and service life of ship constructions.

In vehicle construction, AlMg3's low weight and robustness enable the construction of light, durable bodies for lorries, vans and trailers. Particularly in areas where weight savings lead to increased payload or reduced fuel consumption, AlMg3 plays to its advantages.

Furthermore, AlMg3 is a sought-after solution in mechanical and plant engineering, for example for protective cladding, housings, covers or lightweight structures. Here the choice of material ensures a high level of durability combined with reduced maintenance effort. AlMg3 also offers optimal conditions for platforms, load-bearing scaffolding or cover sheets in the food industry as well as in chemical plants.

In apparatus engineering, AlMg3 proves its worth for tanks, unpressurised containers, pipes and storage vessels that are exposed to chemical or damp environments. Thanks to its hygienic properties, AlMg3 is also suitable for fields of application with special requirements for cleanliness and corrosion resistance.

Advantages and limits of AlMg3

Advantages of AlMg3:

• Excellent corrosion resistance, especially in maritime environments
• Outstanding weldability with TIG and MIG processes
• Very good behaviour in mechanical machining
• Low weight combined with high mechanical stability
• Good formability and cold work hardening options

Limits of AlMg3:

• Medium strength compared with high-strength aluminium alloys
• No increase in strength possible through heat treatment, only through cold work hardening

AlMg3 and EN AW-5754 are practically identical, whereby EN AW-5754 represents the European standard designation. Compared with AlMg4.5Mn (EN AW-5083), AlMg3 offers better formability, but slightly lower strength values. Nevertheless, AlMg3 remains the more economical choice for many constructions, particularly when corrosion resistance and good machinability are the priority.

In summary: why AlMg3 is a versatile solution

AlMg3 aluminium sheets convince through their combination of resilience, ease of processing and good weight-to-strength ratio. Particularly in applications that require high corrosion resistance, this alloy offers superior performance. Whether in shipbuilding, vehicle construction, mechanical or apparatus engineering – AlMg3 remains the preferred choice for durable, reliable constructions.

Thanks to its balanced material properties, AlMg3 supports modern engineering solutions that combine efficiency, sustainability and technical excellence. The combination of cost-effectiveness, technical versatility and reliable material quality makes AlMg3 an intelligent choice for numerous industrial applications.