The standard categorizes aluminum alloys based on their main alloying elements and mechanical properties. These alloys are predominantly from the 6000 and 7000 series, which are suitable for extrusion and structural applications. Common Alloy Numbers
: Defining the strength, hardness, and bendability of different alloys.
The standard is officially available in both Japanese and English. As of the most recent revision, the Japanese version comprises 40 pages and costs 4,730 JPY, while the English translation is 38 pages and costs 15,510 JPY. The latest version is , published on December 20, 2022, which supersedes previous editions from 2015, 2006, and 1999. jis h4100 standard pdf
The JIS H 4100 includes alloys from the 1000 to 7000 series. The 6000 series (Al-Mg-Si alloys) are the most widely used for extrusion, while the 7000 series (Al-Zn-Mg alloys) offer high strength for demanding applications. A comparison of key alloys is presented below:
Making the normative heart of JIS H4100 (and analogous standards) widely available is a practical, ethical, and economic imperative. It levels the playing field for small innovators, enhances global safety, and ultimately strengthens the very industries that standards bodies serve. Standards should be the scaffolding of progress—not the gatekeepers of it. The standard categorizes aluminum alloys based on their
Limits on wall thickness and overall width/height.
: Heat exchangers, machine parts, automotive and architectural cladding, HVAC ducting The standard is officially available in both Japanese
The JIS H 4100 specification aligns with and references international documents such as:
| First Digit | Alloy Series | Principal Alloying Element(s) | Key Characteristics | |---|---|---|---| | 1xxx | Pure Aluminum | 99.00% or higher aluminum | Excellent corrosion resistance, formability, and high electrical/thermal conductivity. | | 2xxx | Al-Cu | Copper | High strength (the original duralumin-type alloys). Lower corrosion resistance and surface treatability. | | 3xxx | Al-Mn | Manganese | Moderate strength with good corrosion resistance and formability. | | 4xxx | Al-Si | Silicon | Low melting point, often used for brazing/welding filler material. | | 5xxx | Al-Mg | Magnesium | Good corrosion resistance (especially in marine environments) and moderate-to-high strength. Surface treats well. | | 6xxx | Al-Mg-Si | Magnesium and Silicon | A highly versatile and popular series. Good extrudability and strength, which is greatly increased by heat treatment. | | 7xxx | Al-Zn-Mg | Zinc (and sometimes copper) | The highest strength aluminum alloys. Good weldability in certain variations. | | 8xxx | Other Elements | e.g., Lithium, Iron | Alloys with other principal elements not listed above. | | 9xxx | Reserve | — | Reserved for future use. |