Need to anneal 5052 aluminum

[Ryoko]

I need to anneal 5052 aluminum for a home project. Google has given me mixed results on how to do this. Short version is that I'm doing some heavy forming on a piece of 5052-H32 and I'm running into issues with it work hardening. I've tried the Sharpie trick with a propane torch. But I'm not sure this is doing anything. I'm also seeing conflicting opinions whether to quench or air cool. So I'm looking for some expert opinions. (Oven heating is not an option due to size.) Thanks.

edit: The thickness of the metal piece is only .032". So I'm not too worried about heating all the way thru.

 

[jrmichler]

I used search terms 5052 aluminum annealing temperature, and got several good results. Some of the confusion might be due to the way that it starts to soften at 500 deg F, but needs 650 deg F to anneal. That's why some sites mention hot working at temperatures above 500 deg F, and annealing at 650 deg F. A quick search seems to show that air cooling vs quenching makes no difference, nor does hold time at temperature. I suggest that you do some deeper searching (note my use of "seems to show").