If you are looking for a reliable, rust-proof, and cost-effective metal for sheet metal fabrication, 3003 aluminum alloy is the industry workhorse.
Many buyers get stuck choosing between 3003 and 5052. The truth is, 3003 is not too soft like the 1100 series, and it doesn't carry the high cost of the 5000 series. Whether you are folding HVAC ducts, roofing, or deep-drawing complex shapes, 3003 delivers the best balance of workability and structural integrity.
What Is 3003 Aluminum Alloy?
The 3003 alloy is an Al-Mn (Aluminum-Manganese) alloy. By adding roughly 1.2% manganese, the alloy gains about 20% more strength than pure aluminum while maintaining its excellent corrosion resistance.
3003 It is non-heat-treatable, meaning its strength comes from the cold-rolling process. This makes it highly predictable in your press brakes, stamping dies, and welding stations.
3003 Aluminum Alloy Chemical Composition
We maintain strict quality control according to international standards (ASTM B209 / EN 485). Here is what you get in every GNEE sheet:
| Element | Typical Composition (%) |
| Manganese (Mn) | 1.00 – 1.50 |
| Copper (Cu) | 0.05 – 0.20 |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.70 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.60 |
| Zinc (Zn) | ≤ 0.10 |
| Aluminum (Al) | Balance |
3003 Aluminum Alloy Mechanical Properties
For engineering purposes, use the following metrics. We guarantee these performance levels for our standard stock.
| Temper | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Yield Strength (Rp0.2) | Elongation (%) | Bending Performance |
| 3003-O | 95 – 130 | ≥ 35 | 25 – 30 | Excellent (Deep Drawing) |
| 3003-H14 | 145 – 195 | ≥ 125 | 4 – 8 | Good (Architectural) |
| 3003-H24 | 145 – 195 | ≥ 115 | 6 – 10 | Best (Press Braking) |
Where to Use 3003 Aluminum Alloy
- Building & Architecture: Ideal for corrugated roofing, wall cladding, and acoustic ceiling tiles. The H14 temper is standard here due to its consistent finish and structural rigidity.
- HVAC & Thermal Management: 3003 is the primary choice for car radiators and heat exchangers. It has excellent thermal conductivity and is easy to join via brazing.
- Industrial Food & Chemical: Because it is non-toxic and corrosion-resistant, it is used for storage tanks, food processing containers, and kitchen utensils.
- General Sheet Metal: Signage, toolboxes, and fabricated panels. It is the easiest alloy for a welder or fabricator to work with.
How We Calculate 3003 Aluminum Alloy Price
Final Price = SMM (Shanghai Metals Market) A00 Aluminum Ingot Price + Processing Fee.
- SMM Base: We track the daily SMM ingot price to ensure you are paying the current market value.
- Processing Fee: This covers the cost of casting, hot/cold rolling, and the additional furnace time required for specific tempers (like H24).
- Procurement Tip: Ordering thinner gauges (e.g., 0.5mm) increases the rolling cost per ton compared to thicker plates (e.g., 3.0mm) because the metal requires more passes through the mill.
Why Buy From GNEE?
Production Quality: We achieve superior thickness tolerance (±0.02mm), ensuring your CNC machinery never jams or requires recalibration.
Expert Export Packaging: We know "white rust" (oxidation) is the enemy of ocean freight. Our sheets are packed with:
- Moisture-proof PE film.
- Waterproof craft paper.
- Industrial desiccants (to absorb container humidity).
- Fumigated wooden pallets for safe forklift handling.
- Short Lead Times: With a massive monthly inventory of standard coils, we can typically have your order ready for export in 15–20 days.
