What is H32 temper aluminum sheet? It is a strain‑hardened and subsequently stabilized aluminum product that reaches a quarter‑hard condition. The “H” stands for strain‑hardened (work‑hardened), “3” indicates a stabilization treatment, and “2” means quarter‑hard. This combination gives the material a practical balance between strength and formability—which is exactly why it is so widely used.
Take 5052‑H32 as the most common example. It is an Al‑Mg alloy (magnesium content 2.2%–2.8%) with these typical mechanical values:
– Ultimate tensile strength: ~228 MPa (33,000 psi)
– Yield strength: ~193 MPa (28,000 psi)
– Elongation: 12% (for 1.6 mm thickness) up to 18% (for 12.7 mm diameter specimens)
– Brinell hardness: ~60
– Density: 2.68 g/cm³
– Thermal conductivity: ~138 W/m·K
– Corrosion resistance – especially against seawater and marine atmospheres, which is why it is often called “marine grade.”
– No heat treatment required – it reaches its strength through cold working, simplifying processing.
– Good weldability and high fatigue strength add to its versatility.
H32 temper aluminum sheet is used across many industries. Some of the most frequent uses include:
– Marine and offshore – hulls, decks, superstructures, and platform components.
– Transportation – aircraft fuel and oil lines, fuel tanks, truck trailers, and highway tankers.
– Pressure vessels and chemical equipment – storage tanks, pressure vessels, and process piping.
– General fabrication and architecture – sheet metal parts, appliance panels, building cladding, and road signs.
This is often the most confusing part for specifiers. Here is a clear breakdown:
H32 vs H34
– H34 is harder and stronger (tensile ~230–280 MPa vs. H32’s ~215–265 MPa), but it has lower elongation (8–10% vs. 10–12%).
– Choose H32 when you need better formability; choose H34 when higher rigidity is the priority.
H32 vs O (annealed)
– O is fully soft and ideal for deep drawing or severe forming, but its tensile strength is only about 172 MPa (25 ksi) and yield strength ~69 MPa (10 ksi).
– H32 offers significantly higher strength while still being workable—it is the most popular temper for general industrial use.
Bending and forming
5052‑H32 can be bent 90° without cracking. For a 0.064‑inch (1.6 mm) sheet, the recommended minimum bend radius is about 1× the material thickness. While it is not as ductile as O‑temper, it handles most standard bending operations well.
Welding
It can be welded using MIG or TIG methods. Weld strength reaches about 90% of the base metal. Common filler alloys are 4043 and 5356.
Machining
Softer tempers (O and H32) are more challenging to machine, while harder ones (like H34) cut more easily. Use high cutting speeds, ample lubrication, and sharp tools for best results.
H32 is only a temper designation—it must be paired with a specific alloy (e.g., 5052‑H32, 5083‑H32, 5086‑H32, 5454‑H32). Each alloy has its own performance profile.
– Standards – ASTM B209 is the most common specification. Always request a mill test certificate (MTC).
– Dimensions – thickness ranges from thin sheet (<6 mm) to plate (≥6 mm), with custom widths and lengths available.
– Pricing – it varies by alloy, thickness, size, and market conditions. For example, 5052‑H32 0.032‑inch sheet in large volume typically falls in the range of $3.72–$4.03 per pound. Always ask for a specific quote based on your exact needs.
H32 temper aluminum sheet earns its reputation because it delivers a reliable combination of strength, formability, corrosion resistance, and weldability—without requiring heat treatment. Whether for marine construction, transport equipment, or general fabrication, it consistently proves its value. Understanding what is H32 temper aluminum sheet helps you make an informed decision for your project.
Henan Mingtai Aluminum supplies H32 temper sheets in multiple alloys and a broad range of thicknesses and sizes. Contact us for a quotation tailored to your application.
Q: What does H32 mean in aluminum sheet?
A: It means the sheet is strain‑hardened and stabilized to a quarter‑hard temper, balancing strength and formability.
Q: Can H32 aluminum sheet be bent without cracking?
A: Yes, 5052‑H32 typically bends 90° without cracking; a minimum bend radius of about 1× thickness is recommended.
Q: What is the difference between H32 and H34?
A: H34 is stronger and harder, while H32 offers better formability and higher elongation.
Q: Is H32 aluminum sheet corrosion resistant?
A: Yes, especially 5xxx series alloys like 5052‑H32, which resist seawater and marine atmospheres very well.
