[tim-tim]

Yes, 5052 is TYPICALLY easier to bend than 6061, however, this depends on the state of the material. I work with sheet metal on a daily basis. Our primary alloy of choice is 6061-T6. And yes ~75% of our parts are bent.

This being said, 6061 does require a larger bend radius. What size bend radius are you using in your model? To bend .090, you should bend with a .188 radius. This will just about garuantee that there will be no cracking in the parts.

I honestly recommend getting with your manufacturer and see what they recommend.

S/N: I can bend 6061-O at a much tighter radius, but the strength is reduced.