3003 aluminum alloy is a commercially pure aluminum with the addition of manganese as its major alloying element. This addition increases its strength by about 20% over 1100 grade aluminum. It is a non-heat-treatable alloy known for its excellent workability, weldability, and good corrosion resistance.
Key Characteristics of 3003 Aluminum Rod
- Corrosion Resistance: Excellent, particularly in atmospheric and marine environments.
- Workability: Highly workable, can be easily formed by drawing, spinning, and bending.
- Weldability: Good weldability using common welding techniques.
- Strength: Moderate strength, higher than 1xxx series alloys.
- Machinability: Fair, often improved in harder tempers.
Typical Properties of 3003 Aluminum Rod
The properties of 3003 aluminum rod can vary depending on the temper (e.g., H14, H18, O). Generally, it exhibits:
- Density: Approximately 2.73 g/cm³ (0.098 lb/in³).
- Tensile Strength (Typical for H14 temper): Around 140-180 MPa (20-26 ksi).
- Yield Strength (Typical for H14 temper): Around 125-170 MPa (18-25 ksi).
- Modulus of Elasticity: Approximately 69 GPa (10,000 ksi).
For specific projects requiring consistent material properties, sourcing from reputable suppliers is crucial. Companies like Shanxi Luokaiwei Steel Company often provide detailed material specifications for their 3003 aluminum rod products.
Common Applications
3003 aluminum rods are widely used in various applications due to their favorable characteristics. These include:
- Sheet metal work
- Cooking utensils and kitchenware
- Storage tanks and chemical equipment
- HVAC components (e.g., ductwork, heat exchangers)
- Building products (e.g., roofing, siding, gutters)
- Automotive parts
- Decorative trim and hardware
The versatility of 3003 aluminum makes it a popular choice. When considering it for demanding applications, consulting with suppliers like Shanxi Luokaiwei Steel Company for appropriate temper and dimensional accuracy is advisable.
Advantages of 3003 Aluminum Rod
- Good Formability: Easy to shape and fabricate.
- Excellent Corrosion Resistance: Suitable for many environments without extensive surface treatment.
- Weldability: Can be joined using various welding methods.
- Lightweight: Offers a good strength-to-weight ratio.
- Cost-Effective: Generally more economical than many other aluminum alloys.
Many industries rely on the balance of properties offered by 3003 aluminum. For bulk or specialized orders of 3003 aluminum rod, manufacturers such as Shanxi Luokaiwei Steel Company can often cater to specific requirements.
Considerations
While 3003 aluminum offers many benefits, it is not suitable for high-strength structural applications where alloys like 6061 or 7075 would be preferred. Its strength is moderate, and it is not heat-treatable for strength enhancement. Always ensure the alloy and temper are appropriate for the intended application’s mechanical and environmental demands.
