3003 is a 3xxx-series alloy with about 1.0-1.5% manganese and a small amount of copper. The manganese raises strength above 1xxx grades while keeping excellent formability and corrosion resistance. Like other non-heat-treatable alloys, it is strengthened by cold work and sold in O and H tempers, with H14 being very common.
Why it matters when buying
- 3003 is a step up from 1050 in strength at modest extra cost, and a step down from 5052.
- State the temper: deep drawing usually needs O or H12, while roofing and panels use harder tempers.
- For colour-coated or roofing sheet, ask about coating type, thickness and the base metal grade separately.
- For circles used in utensils, check grain size and earing behaviour, which affect deep drawing.
Typical uses
Roofing and cladding sheet, cooking utensils and pressure cookers (often from circles), heat exchanger and radiator tubes and fins, ducting, storage tanks, and fin stock. Related alloys such as 3004 and 3104 are used for beverage can bodies. See sheets and coils and the sheet and coil buying checklist.