What's the difference?
Why use one over the other?

5052-H32 (QQ-A-250/8d)
Main alloy is magnesium. Far stronger than any of the alloys described above, yet forms well with reasonable inside bend radii. Corrosion resistance and weldability is very good. Better salt water corrosion resistance than 1100. Used for electronic chassis, tanks, pressure vessels and any number of parts requiring considerable strength and formability at reasonable cost. Anodizing may be slightly yellowish.


6061-T6 (QQ-A-250/11d)
Alloyed with magnesium & silicon. Heat treatable to improve strength. A widely used structural alloy for light to medium strength applications. Requires much larger inside bend radii than 5052-H32, but can be formed. Combines good weldability, corrosion resistance, and strength after heat treatment. Since it looses appreciable strength when welded, the 5000 series alloys replace it in dump body and some marine applications.

The stronger one cant be crimped. and it cracks easier..

Go with the Cheapest one at time of Purchase..

Uncle J

5052 is your most common for boat building. saw a boat a few years ago built with 6061 ,used in salt water it corroded in 2 yrs where it sat on the carpeted trailer boards. (6061 is bbq pit aluminum) 6061 is a harder material which makes it more brittle

5086