Alloys · 3003

3003 Aluminum: Formable Manganese Alloy

In short

3003 is an aluminum–manganese alloy that is roughly 20 % stronger than pure 1100 aluminum while keeping excellent formability, weldability and corrosion resistance. It is non-heat-treatable and one of the most widely used general-purpose alloys for heat-exchanger tubes, HVAC parts, cookware, roofing, storage tanks and sheet-metal work.

Round aluminum tube OD 40 × 3 mm, clear anodized
3003 tubeCharMax Aluminum
Main element
Mn 1.0–1.5 %
Tempers
O · H14 · H18
Conductivity
≈ 160–190 W/m·K
Density
2.73 g/cm³
Forms
Sheet, plate, tube

01Chemical composition

ElementSiFeCuMnMgCrZnTi
Weight %≤ 0.6≤ 0.70.05–0.201.0–1.5≤ 0.10

Registered limits; remainder aluminum.

02Properties

Property3003-O3003-H143003-H18
Tensile strength Rm≈ 110 MPa≈ 150 MPa≈ 200 MPa
Yield strength Rp0.2≈ 40 MPa≈ 145 MPa≈ 185 MPa
Thermal conductivity≈ 190 W/m·K≈ 160 W/m·K≈ 155 W/m·K

Indicative values from published typical and minimum data; properties depend on temper, product form and thickness. The mill certificate for each lot is the controlling document.

03Typical applications

  • Heat-exchanger and radiator tubes
  • HVAC ducting and components
  • Cookware and kitchen equipment
  • Roofing, siding and gutters
  • Storage tanks and pressure-free vessels
  • General sheet-metal parts

04Frequently asked questions

Is 3003 aluminum heat treatable?

No. Its strength comes from manganese and cold work (H tempers). It welds and forms very well.

3003 or 5052 — which is stronger?

5052 is significantly stronger and more corrosion resistant in marine conditions; 3003 is more formable and usually less expensive.

Last updated September 17, 2026 · Reviewed by the CharMax Aluminum engineering team

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