i was thinking of buying some aluminum sheets to make some panels for my scratch built case. i was wondering what was the difference between 2024, 5052, 6061, and 7075. in other words with would be better for a panel. -wielding will not be involved.
I've always used 5052 for my panels mainly because its the cheapest for me and the most widely available. I also used 6061 for some of the other panels too and I didn't notice any difference in machining.
The numbers identify what specific alloy the aluminum is. The different alloys can have very different mechanical and chemical properties, but for something relatively non-structural like a case, any type will do. Buy whatever's cheapest in your area.
yeah, the numbers make a big difference in the stiffness/weight ratio for things like bike frames and baseball bats, but for a flat slab with no real forces applied to it, you can just go with whatever's cheapest
yah, material codes stand for alloy composition, temper, heat-treatment and forging process. tolerance and acceptable values also have a tiny bit to do with code designation, and a lot to do with price, such that high grade aircraft aluminum has much tighter tolerances etc than sand cast aluminum. as said though for modding, get what ever is cheapest here's an older list of tradenames and composition http://www.csudh.edu/oliver/chemdata/alloys.htm and here's a quick break down of ASME alluminum codes just in case you wanted to know http://www.key-to-nonferrous.com/default.aspx?ID=CheckArticle&NM=2
I agree with all the above, for a case any grade should do. The only thing you may need to watch out for is some tempers (identified by a "-T" and a number after the grade) if you are bending your panels, as some may crack or induce stress. These are often more expensive though, so you should be okay going for the cheap ones.
5052 is easier to bend to a tight radius and is available in thinner sheets. 6061 is better for machining and is available in heavier plates. Those are the two most commonly stocked by metal shops and suppliers around here. Like Sabbath, I can't tell the difference myself, even after using both. As for using either on a computer case, can't see that it matters. I'm not sure about the others (2024 0r 7075). If the panel will remain flat, just being cut to size for example, any aluminum will work the same as any other.
