Can a 0.032-inch bend radius be used for a 90-degree bend in 5052-H32 aluminum alloy, 0.128 inch thick?

Using a 0.032-inch bend radius for a 90-degree bend in a 5052-H32 aluminum alloy that is 0.128 inches thick is not advisable because the radius is too small in relation to the thickness of the material. The minimum recommended bend radius for aluminum alloys typically depends on the thickness of the material and the specific alloy being used.

For 5052-H32 aluminum, the general rule is that the bend radius should be at least equal to the material thickness, and often more than that for severe bends to avoid cracking or damaging the material. In this case, a 0.032-inch radius is significantly smaller than what would be considered acceptable, which can lead to issues such as cracking at the bend.

This understanding aligns with standard metalworking practices, which ensure that the material's integrity is maintained during the bending process. The reference specifications for such materials would determine that a bend radius should be approximately one to two times the thickness, depending on the specifics of the bend and the desired properties of the finished part. Thus, using a 0.032-inch bend radius in this instance does not meet the necessary criteria, confirming that it indeed cannot be safely or appropriately used.