MetalsWhat is 3003 aluminum and what is it used for? The sheet aluminum for forming
3003 aluminum (3003-H14) is the sheet aluminum for forming. In this guide we explain what 3003 aluminum is, its composition, its properties, what it is used for and the sizes we stock.
What is 3003 aluminum?
3003-H14 aluminum is a general-purpose aluminum-manganese alloy with excellent corrosion resistance, good formability and weldability. Since it is not heat-treatable, it is used mainly in sheet products that require ease of fabrication and moderate mechanical strength.
Chemical composition of 3003 aluminum
This is the typical composition of 3003 aluminum (Commercial 3003-H14 / ASTM B209 / UNS A93003 / EN AW-3003 / DIN 3.0517 standard):
| Element | Contents | What for? |
|---|---|---|
| Silicon (Si) | 0.60 % max. | Alloying element |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.70 % max. | Controlled impurity |
| Copper (Cu) | 0.05 – 0.20 % | Adds some strength |
| Manganese (Mn) | 1.00 – 1.50 % | Main alloying element: raises strength without losing formability |
| Zinc (Zn) | 0.10 % max. | Residual element |
| Others (each) | 0.05 % max. | Other elements, kept limited |
| Others (total) | 0.15 % max. | Sum of others, limited |
| Aluminum (Al) | Balance | Base metal |
3003 properties and temper
3003 is a moderate-strength aluminum designed for forming. In H14 temper (strain hardened, half-hard) it has a tensile strength on the order of 150 MPa and a hardness close to 40 HB. It is not heat treatable (3000 series, manganese): it hardens only by cold deformation. Its strengths are excellent corrosion resistance, formability (it bends and draws easily) and weldability, which is why it is the typical sheet aluminum.
What is it for? Applications of 3003
3003 aluminum is mainly used in:
- Sheet and covers
- Ventilation ducts
- Vessels and tanks
- Utensils and housewares
- Signs and signage
- Panels and facades
- Heat exchangers
- Formed and deep-drawn components
- Packaging and containers
Forms and sizes we carry
At NAT MAC we stock 3003 aluminum in these forms and sizes:
| Package size | Sizes |
|---|---|
| Sheet | Cal 26 - Cal 16 (0.45 – 1.65 mm) |
If you need a particular size, tell us which one and we will gladly source it for you.
3003 equivalents and standards
3003 aluminum is also identified by these standards: Commercial 3003-H14 / ASTM B209 / UNS A93003 / EN AW-3003 / DIN 3.0517. You can see how to read them in our article on metal standards.
In summary
- 3003-H14 is a manganese aluminum for sheet forming
- Not heat treatable; hardens by cold working; ~150 MPa and ~40 HB
- Excellent corrosion resistance, formability and weldability
- Ideal for sheet, covers, ducts, vessels and drawn parts
- We carry it in sheet, cut to size
Why buy your 3003 aluminum at NAT MAC?
We have more than 54 years of experience as an industrial supplier and ISO 9001 certified quality. We carry quality aluminum and help you choose the right alloy for your project.
- Quality 3003 Aluminum, backed and traceable
- Material cut to the size you need
- Advice on choosing between 3003, 6061 and 7075 for your part
- Plate, round bar, flat bar and sheet depending on the alloy
- On-time deliveries and competitive prices
Tell us what you are going to make and in what dimensions, and we will recommend the right alloy and form. Request your free quote.
Sources: data sheet from our NAT MAC catalog (composition, sizes and applications) and public references from the aluminum industry. Values are for reference and may vary by standard, temper and heat.
