What Is 3003 Aluminum?
Aluminum is the most abundant metallic element found in the Earth's crust and, in its processed metallic form, plays a critical role across numerous industries. Rather than using pure aluminum, manufacturers typically rely on aluminum alloys, each designed with specific performance characteristics to suit different applications.
Aluminum alloys are produced by introducing alloying elements-such as manganese, copper, magnesium, or zinc-into aluminum to improve strength, durability, and overall performance. Due to the large number of aluminum alloy types available, the Aluminum Association developed a four-digit alloy designation system to categorize them according to their alloying elements and general characteristics.
Aluminum 3003 is one of the most widely used and distributed aluminum alloys worldwide. It belongs to the 3xxx series, which uses manganese as the primary alloying element. Because of its balanced properties, 3003 aluminum is widely regarded as one of the best general-purpose aluminum alloys. This article outlines the physical characteristics, mechanical performance, and common applications of aluminum 3003, clearly demonstrating its broad industrial versatility.
Physical Properties of 3003 Aluminum
Aluminum alloys vary depending on the type and percentage of alloying elements used. Alloys containing less than 4% alloying elements are classified as wrought alloys, while those containing up to 22% are categorized as cast alloys. This discussion focuses solely on wrought aluminum alloys.
Wrought aluminum alloys are further classified by how their strength is achieved. Some alloys can be strengthened through heat treatment, while others rely on work hardening (cold working). Aluminum alloys in the 3xxx series, including 3003, are non-heat-treatable, meaning their strength can only be increased through mechanical deformation processes such as rolling or hammering. This deformation alters the metal's internal structure, increasing strength while reducing ductility.
There are multiple tempers of 3003 aluminum based on the degree of work hardening. For simplicity, this article highlights 3003-H18, a fully work-hardened condition.
Aluminum 3003 typically contains approximately 0.12% copper, 1.2% manganese, and 98.6% aluminum. Minor variations may occur depending on production methods, and trace impurities may be present. The relatively simple composition reflects the practical limit of manganese addition to aluminum, which is about 1.5%. The density of 3003 aluminum is approximately 2.73 g/cm³ (0.0986 lb/in³).
Mechanical Properties of 3003 Aluminum
When specifying aluminum 3003, key mechanical properties such as yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, shear strength, modulus of elasticity, and shear modulus should be considered. The values listed here refer to 3003-H18, though mechanical properties may vary slightly depending on temper.
The tensile yield strength of 3003 aluminum is approximately 186 MPa (27,000 psi), while its ultimate tensile strength is about 200 MPa (29,000 psi). These values classify 3003 aluminum as a moderate-strength material. Yield strength is particularly important for structural and static applications, as it defines the stress level at which permanent deformation begins. Ultimate strength represents the maximum stress reached before failure during plastic deformation.
Because aluminum 3003 is often processed from sheet form, it is frequently subjected to shear stresses during cutting and fabrication. Shear stress occurs when opposing forces act along a plane, similar to the cutting action of scissors. The shear strength of 3003 aluminum is approximately 110 MPa (16,000 psi), indicating that it can be cut and formed efficiently using standard fabrication methods.
The modulus of elasticity and shear modulus describe how the material responds to applied stress within the elastic (non-permanent deformation) range. These values are derived from stress–strain testing and indicate resistance to deformation. For aluminum 3003, the modulus of elasticity is about 68.9 GPa (10,000 ksi), and the shear modulus is approximately 25 GPa (3,630 ksi).
Mechanical Properties of 3003 Aluminum (H18)
| Property | Metric | English |
|---|---|---|
| Ultimate Tensile Strength | 200 MPa | 29,000 psi |
| Tensile Yield Strength | 186 MPa | 27,000 psi |
| Shear Strength | 110 MPa | 16,000 psi |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 68.9 GPa | 10,000 ksi |
| Shear Modulus | 25 GPa | 3,630 ksi |
Applications of 3003 Aluminum
Thanks to its moderate strength, excellent workability, and good corrosion resistance, aluminum 3003 is one of the most commonly used aluminum alloys and is widely recognized as a general-purpose material. Its versatility allows it to perform well in a broad range of applications, including:
Sheet metal fabrication
Builder's hardware
Chemical processing equipment
Truck and trailer components
Fuel tanks
Cabinets and enclosures
About GNEE
GNEE is a professional aluminum manufacturer and supplier committed to delivering comprehensive solutions from prototype development to full-scale production. As an ISO 9001 certified company, GNEE focuses on quality management, continuous improvement, and value creation. Through close collaboration, technical innovation, optimized processes, and skilled workmanship, GNEE strives to build long-term, reliable partnerships with customers worldwide.
