Abstract
Al alloys have been used widely for commercial and military ships in most ocean countries since mid-1950s, and the value as light metal with high mechanical strength has been proven. As the safety and fuel efficiency of Al ships have improved, she can carry more freight, sail faster and travel longer distances. Furthermore, in the shipbuilding industry, Al alloys are applied as structural materials for ships to various areas including the deck of luxurious cruises, battleships and leisure ships. In addition, Al alloys are being spotlighted as environmental-friendly material as they can be recycled even after end of lifespan. However, Al alloys for ships must be carefully selected after considering corrosion resistance, endurance, strength, and weldability in sea water environment. Al alloys to satisfy these conditions are used widely include 5000 series Al-Mg alloy and 6000 series Al-Mg-Si alloy. Thus, this study selected and evaluated the cavitation characteristics of the 5000 series Al alloys that are used in hulls that directly contact seawater and the 6000 Al alloys that are used in the upper structures of ships. Results of cavitation test with time, weightloss and cavitation rate of 5456-H116 showed the smallest damage among 5052-O, 5456-H116 and 6061-T6.