It is commonly rolled and extruded, but typically not forged. As a wrought alloy, it is not used in casting. The most common applications for the 3003 aluminum coil are fuel tanks, sheet metal work, and other types of projects that need metal. It is also widely used in sheet metal applications such as HVAC, hinges, condensers, radiators, evaporators, heat shields, gutters, downspouts, and roofing and siding.

Chemical Composition

Advantages

The machinability of the 3003 aluminum is considered good for being an aluminum alloy. It is readily machined for different applications. It can either be formed using conventional hot working or cold working. It’s also possible to use conventional welding methods to shape 3003 aluminum. It is sometimes welded to other aluminum alloys, like 6061, 5052, and 6062, which should have an AL 4043 filler rod.

Aluminum 3003 isn’t heat treatable, but it can be forged with heat that’s between 500 and 950 degrees Fahrenheit. When using heat in this range, the aluminum can be hot worked easily. However, it is readily cold-worked, which can be done using conventional methods. When annealing the alloy during or after using cold working techniques, it should be performed at 775 degrees Fahrenheit. This will give it enough time to thoroughly heat before being air-cooled. The only way to make this alloy hard is with the use of cold working. It can also be deep drawn, spun, or brazed.