What Does 3003 H16 Mean?
3003 H16 refers to Aluminum Alloy 3003 in the H16 temper, indicating a work-hardened aluminum alloy strengthened by manganese. The material is cold-rolled to approximately three-quarters of full hardness (H18), providing a balanced combination of good corrosion resistance, workable formability, and moderate mechanical strength. It is commonly supplied in coil and sheet form and is widely used in roofing systems, heat exchangers, and decorative panels.
Aluminum Alloy 3003
Composition:
Primarily aluminum alloyed with 1.0–1.5% manganese, which improves tensile strength and corrosion resistance compared with commercially pure aluminum.
Key Properties:
Excellent corrosion resistance
Good formability and weldability
Non-heat treatable, but strengthened through cold working
Typical Applications:
General sheet metal fabrication
Architectural and building panels
Food and chemical handling equipment
HVAC components such as radiators and condensers
Decorative and industrial products
3003-H16 Alloy Young's Modulus
The Young's Modulus of 3003-H16 Alloy is 70,000 MPa.
3003-H16 Alloy Ultimate Strength
The Ultimate Strength of 3003-H16 Alloy is 165 MPa.
3003-H16 Alloy Yield Strength
The Yield Strength of 3003-H16 Alloy is 145 MPa.
H16 Temper Explained
Definition:
H16 indicates that the aluminum has been strain-hardened (cold-worked) to a specific strength level.
Hardness Classification:
The first digit "1" confirms cold working
The second digit, "6," signifies approximately 75% of full hard temper (H18)
This temper offers greater strength and hardness than H12 or H14, while remaining softer and more formable than H18.
Performance Result:
Compared with annealed (O) or lightly work-hardened tempers, H16 provides higher mechanical strength and hardness, with a corresponding reduction in ductility.
Summary
When specified as 3003 H16, the material represents a versatile aluminum product that combines strength, corrosion resistance, and workable formability. GNEE supplies 3003 H16 aluminum primarily as coils and sheets, making it an excellent choice for applications that require improved strength without significantly compromising malleability.
