Aluminium coil is a term used to describe sheet that has been coiled into rolls. Stacks of separate sheets are tricky to store, retrieve, and carry. However, coils are much simpler to deal with. Whether you choose 3103 (H14) aluminium coil or other types, it is more convenient to order coils than sheets.
One thing to keep in mind is a multitude of grades of aluminium can be made into coils. Examples include alloys in the 3000, 6000, and 7000 series. Grades depend on the composition. The particular features of every grade, like pliability and hardness, make them work for individual industries.
To pick the right aluminium coil grade, you need to understand the characteristics and how they align with your application. At the same time, you must know about the welding or fabrication processes you need to do. What we want to focus on are the types and grades of coils you can come across. So, read on to learn more.
1000 series
To gain this classification, a product needs to contain 99.5% aluminium at minimum. This qualifies it as commercially pure. It is different to options like 3103 (H14) aluminium coil because 1000 series aluminium does not contain any alloying elements in significant quantities.
These coils can’t be heat treated. Yet, this series possesses superior corrosion resistance, and high thermal and electrical conductivity. There is excellent weldability too. You can weld alloys with specific precautions, but heating doesn’t alter the appearance. As such, it can be difficult to differentiate between hot and cold material when welding.
The most common 1000 series grades are 1050, 1060, and 1100. They’re useful for manufacturing decorative building elements, curtain wall panels, and cookware.
2000 series
These materials are alloyed with copper. Usually, the alloys hold between 2% and 10% copper. Small amounts of other elements are present too. They can experience precipitation hardening to gain strengths similar to steel.
The 2000 series aluminium alloys are extensively used in the aerospace industry. You can produce aircraft thanks to their low weight and high strength.
3000 series
The 3000 series coils are next on the list. It includes 3103 (H14) aluminium coil. Manganese is the main alloying element here, but it’s normally only small quantities. This series tends to be non-heat treatable. What you get is a material more brittle compared to pure aluminium, but with decent corrosion resistance and formability.
The most common alloys are 3003 and 3004, perfect for applications like lamp bases, hardware, and chemical apparatus. They are great for their workability, formability, strength, corrosion resistance, and drawing properties.
4000 series
Next we have a series of alloys that have high silicon content. Silicon’s addition lowers the melting point and increases the aluminium’s flexibility. This means materials are appropriate for die casting. You can also use them for welding, forgings, and brazing instead of extrusion.
5000 series
These grades are famous for the exceptional deep-drawability as well as a smooth exterior. Compare to other series, including 3103 (H14) aluminium coil, these have higher hardness. The fluidity and strength make the alloys perfect for equipment casings and heat sinks.
Moreover, the alloys in the 5000 series provide fantastic corrosion resistance. Due to this, you can use them for residential wall panels, mobile homes, and other projects.
Key alloys here include 5005, 5A05, and 5052. They’re all characterised by their high tensile strength and low density. The result is widespread industrial use. Especially in marine environments, the 5000 series aluminium coils are popular because of the massive weight savings. Not to mention, the alloys are highly resistant to alkali and acid corrosion, making them suitable for marine work.
6000 series
Another notable series is 6000. The most popular alloy here is 6061. It includes magnesium and silicon. It works very well for applications needing high corrosion and oxidation resistance. Plus, it features wonderful workability, ease of coating, and interface properties. Due to this, you can use it for low-pressure armaments and aircraft joints.
Sometimes, there are also small quantities of zinc or copper in 6000 series alloys. They increase strength without substantially undermining corrosion resistance.
Aluminium 6062 is another notable option. It is a wrought alloy featuring magnesium silicide and is heat treated to increase hardness. It works for manufacturing submarines. This is because of its corrosion resistance in saltwater and fresh water settings.
Work with us if you want 3103 (H14) aluminium coil or other alloys
At Brindley Metals, we work hard to ensure everyone gets the exact materials they need. As a result, our range is really extensive. It includes different types of aluminium, titanium, steel, brass, and more. We even have a number of specialist materials that very few other suppliers deal in.
There are many instances where people will be after 3103 (H14) aluminium coil. When you need the coils, we go above and beyond to deliver. So, let us know if there’s something we can do for you.