3003 Aluminum Foil

3003 aluminum foil is a versatile material renowned for its balance of strength, corrosion resistance, and formability. Belonging to the Al-Mn alloy series, it contains 1.0–1.5% manganeseas the primary alloying element, with the remainder being aluminum and trace impurities like iron and silicon. This composition imparts distinct advantages over pure aluminum (e.g., 1100 series), including 10–20% higher tensile strength(120–235 MPa, depending on temper) and enhanced resistance to atmospheric corrosion.

Key Properties

1. Mechanical Performance:

• Temper Designations: Common tempers for foil include H14(25% cold work, tensile strength 140–185 MPa), H18(75% cold work, 190–235 MPa), and O(annealed, 95–135 MPa).

• Formability: The O temper offers high ductility for deep stamping (e.g., food containers), while H18 provides rigidity for structural applications.

Corrosion Resistance:

• A dense aluminum oxide layerforms naturally on the surface, protecting against moisture, food acids, and most chemicals. This makes it suitable for direct food contact without additional coatings in many cases. However, epoxy or lacquer coatingsare often applied for specialized uses like microwaveable containers to enhance heat resistance and prevent leaching.

Thermal and Electrical Properties:

• Good thermal conductivity (160 W/m·K) enables efficient heat transfer in applications like heat shields or cooking utensils. Electrical conductivity is ~40% IACS, comparable to pure aluminum.

Recyclability:

• 3003 foil is 100% recyclablewithout loss of 性能. Closed-loop recycling processes recover scrap into new foil, contributing to its sustainability credentials.

Applications

1. Food Packaging:

• Used for tray containers, baking pans, and laminated pouchesdue to its barrier properties against oxygen, moisture, and light. Its heat resistance allows oven use up to 240°C.

• Example: 3003-H24 foil is preferred for complex-shaped meal boxes due to its balance of strength and formability.

Automotive and Energy:

• Battery casingsin electric vehicles (EVs) leverage its lightweight (1/3 the density of steel) and corrosion resistance to protect lithium-ion cells.

• Heat shieldsand radiator componentsbenefit from its thermal conductivity and durability in engine compartments.

Industrial and Construction:

• Aluminum honeycomb coresfor aerospace and panels, where its high strength-to-weight ratio enhances structural efficiency.

• Electronics: Used in capacitors and EMI shielding due to its electrical properties and ease of machining.

Household and Consumer Goods:

• Cooking utensils, insulation materials, and decorative laminatesexploit its aesthetic appeal and resistance to staining.

Manufacturing and Standards

• Production: Cold-rolled from alloyed aluminum ingots, with thicknesses ranging from 0.006 mm (6 microns)to 0.2 mm. Surface treatments like electrostatic oilingimprove stamping performance, while degreasingensures cleanliness for food applications.

• Standards: Compliant with ASTM B209(US), EN 485-2(EU), and GB/T 3880(China) for alloy composition and mechanical properties. Food-grade foil meets FDA/EFSAregulations when coated with approved lacquers.

Cost and Sustainability

• Pricing: In 2025, industrial-grade 3003 foil typically costs $2,800–$3,800 per ton, depending on thickness and temper. Smaller rolls for consumer use are priced at $1.4–$1.5 per piece.

• Environmental Impact: Its high recyclability and energy-efficient production (95% energy saved vs. primary aluminum) make it a sustainable choice. For example, recycled 3003 foil reduces CO₂ emissions by ~95%.

Comparison with Other Alloys

• 1100 (Pure Aluminum): Lower strength (75–110 MPa) but better ductility and lower cost. Used for non-structural applications like general wrapping.

• 8011 (Al-Si Alloy): Similar corrosion resistance but superior pinhole-free surface for pharmaceutical packaging. Less formable than 3003.

Conclusion

3003 aluminum foil excels in applications demanding a combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and versatility. From food packaging to advanced EV components, its reliable performance and sustainability make it a preferred choice across industries. By leveraging its unique properties and adhering to stringent standards, manufacturers ensure consistent quality and safety for diverse end uses.

The Product Specification