3xxx Series Aluminium

3xxx Series Aluminium Alloys feature Manganese as their main alloying element. The actual Manganese content is limited to around 1.8%, but even this small addition is enough to give these alloys a 20% strength increase over 1xxx Series Alloys.

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These alloys are moderate in strength, which means that they are usually excluded for applications where structural strength is required, but, due to the retention of the key benefits of 1xxx Series Alloys namely; excellent corrosion resistance, good formability and weldability, but with added strength from the addition of Manganese, they are a very useful general purpose alloy. Indeed Alloy 3003 is the widest used general purpose aluminium alloy.

 

Due to their high Aluminium content, 3xxx Series Alloys do not machine well, but have very good welding capabilities. They can be work hardened to increase their strength in the H-Tempers up to 520 MPa, but this may be to the detriment of their formability.

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3xxx Series Alloys are used extensively in the construction industry, with their excellent corrosion resistance and formability making them perfect for roof structures, sidings and guttering. They are also used in many other industries including energy and automotive where they make an excellent material to make heat exchangers from, and in leisure and recreation where they are used to make kitchen products and drinks cans.

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We supply all grades of 3xxx Series Alloys, so please feel free to contact us with your direct requirements.