Marine grade aluminum C channels are extruded aluminum alloy profiles with a C shaped cross section. They are widely used in shipbuilding for structural connections, equipment installation and deck support applications.

Common Alloy Grades of Marine Grade Aluminum C Channel

- 5083 H116: Al-Mg alloy, magnesium content 4.0-4.9%, manganese content 0.4-1.0%, chromium content ≤0.25%, balance aluminum.

- Performance: Tensile strength ≥ 270 MPa, yield strength ≥ 125 MPa, elongation ≥ 10%, hardness approximately 75 HB.

- Advantages: Excellent seawater corrosion resistance, suitable for structures such as hulls, decks and bulkheads.

Common Dimensions of Marine Grade Aluminum C Channel:

- Size:

100×150mm, 150×150mm, 100×100mm, 200×200mm. Some aluminum C channel manufacturers offer custom sizes, such as maximum widths of 400mm, 450mm, and 500mm.

U-plate Dimensions:

Mainstream maximum widths: 400mm and 600mm, with other specifications decreasing in 50mm increments.

- Length:

Standard lengths: 3-7.5 meters, customizable upon request.

- Wall Thickness:

Range: 0.6-35mm, with different thicknesses corresponding to different specifications (e.g., 0.6mm for lightweight structures, 35mm for heavy loads).

Performance Requirements of Marine Grade Aluminum C Channel:

1. Mechanical Properties

- Tensile Strength: ≥270 MPa (5083-H116 alloy).

- Yield Strength: ≥125 MPa.

- Elongation: ≥10% (50mm gauge length).

2. Corrosion Resistance

- Salt Spray Test: Meets ASTM B117, no red rust after 72 hours.

- Seawater Corrosion: Surface oxide film and anodizing treatment ensure long-term resistance to seawater corrosion.

3. Processability

- Cold Working: Supports processes such as hemming, curling, and roll bending, with no cracks after processing.

- Hot Working: Aluminum maintains strength and corrosion resistance even after hot bending and pyrotechnic straightening.

Material Standards and Certifications

1. Classification Society Certification

- DNV (Det Norske Veritas): Must comply with the "Ships Classification Rules," requiring the material to undergo rigorous testing of chemical composition, mechanical properties, and processability (such as bending and welding), and auditing the factory production process.

- ABS (American Bureau of Shipping): Based on the "Aluminum Alloy Ship Construction Code," the material must meet tensile strength, yield strength, and impact toughness requirements, and submit a complete factory test report.

- BV (Bureau Veritas): Certification standards are similar to those of DNV and ABS, emphasizing the material's seawater corrosion resistance and weldability.

2. International and National Standards

- ISO 10066:2018: Specifies the dimensional tolerances, mechanical properties, and test methods for aluminum and aluminum alloy profiles.

- ASTM B928M-07: Specifies the chemical composition, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance requirements for high-magnesium aluminum alloy plates for use in marine environments.

Core advantages of marine grade aluminum C channel include:

- Lightweight:

Aluminum has a density of only one-third that of steel, significantly reducing ship weight and improving fuel efficiency.

- Corrosion Resistance:

The naturally formed aluminum oxide film and anodizing technology on the surface provide excellent corrosion resistance in seawater environments.

- Processability:

It supports a variety of processing techniques, including welding, cold bending, and stamping, and exhibits stable post-weld performance.

Application Scenarios of Marine Grade Aluminum C Channel:

1. Ship Structures

- Hulls and Deck: Replace traditional steel structures, reducing weight and improving speed and fuel efficiency.

- Bulkheads and Superstructures: Used to separate compartments and install equipment such as radar and antenna mounts.

2. Marine Engineering

- LNG Tanks: Serves as support structures, withstanding low temperatures and seawater corrosion.

- Drilling Platforms: Used for modular construction, improving structural strength and durability.

3. Other Applications

- High-Speed Craft and Yachts: Lightweight design improves speed and maneuverability.

- Military Vessels: Meet stealth and impact resistance requirements.

Marine grade aluminum C channels have passed stringent classification society certifications (such as DNV and ABS) and international standards (ISO 10066). Made primarily of 5083-H116 alloy, they utilize processes such as extrusion, micro-arc oxidation, and rack machining to achieve high strength, corrosion resistance, and ease of machining. Their application in shipbuilding has significantly driven the lightweighting revolution, making them a key material for modern shipbuilding and marine engineering.