What Are the Differences in Chemical Composition and Properties Between 3104 and 3004 Aluminum Sheets
When it comes to aluminum sheets for various industrial and commercial applications, 3104 and 3004 aluminum sheets are two popular choices within the 3xxx series of aluminum alloys. These alloys, known for their combination of corrosion resistance, workability, and strength, have distinct chemical compositions that translate into differences in their mechanical and physical properties. Understanding these differences is crucial for making an informed decision when selecting the right aluminum sheet for your project.
Chemical Composition Discrepancies
3104 Aluminum Sheet
3104 aluminum sheet is an aluminum - magnesium - manganese alloy. The primary alloying elements are magnesium and manganese. Typically, the magnesium content in 3104 aluminum ranges from 0.8% to 1.3%, while the manganese content is also in the range of 0.8% to 1.3%. Additionally, it may contain small amounts of other elements such as zinc (up to 0.25%) and trace elements like iron and silicon. The relatively balanced magnesium and manganese levels contribute to its unique set of properties. For instance, the magnesium helps in enhancing the alloy's strength, while the manganese plays a role in improving corrosion resistance and formability.
3004 Aluminum Sheet
3004 aluminum sheet also belongs to the aluminum - magnesium - manganese alloy family. However, its chemical composition shows some variations compared to 3104. The magnesium content in 3004 aluminum is similar to 3104, ranging from 0.8% to 1.3%. But the manganese content in 3004 is slightly higher, typically from 1.0% to 1.5%. It also contains iron (up to 0.7%) and may have trace amounts of other elements like copper, zinc, and silicon. The higher manganese content in 3004 can have a significant impact on its properties, particularly in terms of strength and formability.
Property Variances
Strength
In terms of strength, 3104 and 3004 aluminum sheets have comparable levels but with some differences. 3104 aluminum, with its balanced alloying elements, generally offers a good balance of strength and formability. It has a tensile strength that can range from around 200 to 300 MPa depending on the temper. 3004 aluminum, on the other hand, due to its slightly higher manganese content, often exhibits a slightly higher tensile strength, especially in the same temper conditions. The higher manganese content in 3004 can contribute to a more robust microstructure, resulting in increased resistance to deformation under load. This makes 3004 a better choice in applications where higher strength is required, such as in some structural components or in applications that need to withstand significant mechanical stress.
Formability
Both 3104 and 3004 aluminum sheets are known for their good formability, which is a crucial property for applications like deep - drawing, stamping, and bending. 3104 aluminum sheet has excellent formability, allowing it to be easily shaped into complex geometries. Its balanced alloy composition enables it to undergo significant deformation without cracking. 3004 aluminum sheet also has very good formability. However, the slightly higher manganese content in 3004 can make it a bit more challenging to form in some extreme deep - drawing operations compared to 3104. In general, for most common forming processes, both alloys perform well, but 3104 may have a slight edge in terms of ease of forming in highly intricate shapes.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion resistance is an important aspect for aluminum alloys, especially for applications where the sheets are exposed to the elements. Both 3104 and 3004 aluminum sheets offer good corrosion resistance. The presence of manganese in both alloys helps in forming a protective oxide layer on the surface of the aluminum, which acts as a barrier against corrosion. In most environments, including those with moderate humidity and exposure to common atmospheric pollutants, both 3104 and 3004 aluminum sheets can maintain their integrity over long periods. However, in more aggressive environments, such as near coastal areas with high salt content in the air, 3104 aluminum may offer slightly better corrosion resistance due to its specific alloy composition.
Applications Based on Differences
3104 Aluminum Sheet Applications
3104 aluminum sheet is commonly used in the production of beverage can lids. Its good formability allows for the precise shaping required for can lid manufacturing, and its adequate strength and corrosion resistance ensure the integrity of the lid during storage and transportation of beverages. It is also used in some automotive parts where a combination of formability and moderate strength is needed, such as in certain interior components or in the fabrication of parts that require lightweight materials with good corrosion resistance.
3004 Aluminum Sheet Applications
3004 aluminum sheet is widely used in the manufacture of beverage cans. Its higher strength compared to 3104 makes it more suitable for the can body, which needs to withstand the internal pressure of carbonated beverages. In the construction industry, 3004 aluminum sheet is used for roofing and siding applications. Its corrosion resistance and formability make it a great choice for creating durable and aesthetically pleasing building exteriors. It is also used in some industrial equipment where strength and corrosion resistance are key requirements, such as in the manufacturing of chemical storage tanks or in equipment that is exposed to harsh operating conditions.
Gwangyang Aluminum: Your Reliable Supplier
South Korea's Gwangyang Aluminum, established in October 2018 and starting construction in December 2019, is a leading supplier of high - quality aluminum products. Spanning an area of 50,000 square meters, our state - of - the - art facility is equipped with 1 hot rolling mill, 1 cold rolling mill, 2 tension levelling machines, 6 fading furnaces, 1 slitting line, and 2 annealing furnaces. We specialize in producing 1, 3, and 5 series aluminum alloy sheets and strips, with an annual output of 120,000 tons.
Whether you need 3104 or 3004 aluminum sheets for your project, Gwangyang Aluminum can provide you with the right product. Our strict quality control processes ensure that every sheet meets international standards for chemical composition and properties. We offer a wide range of sizes and tempers to meet your specific requirements.
Contact us today:
Email: gwangyangaluminum@gmail.com
Website: https://www.gyal.co.kr/
Address: 266 Sepungsandan Road, Gwangyang - Eub, Gwangyang - Si, Jeollanam - Do, Republic Of Korea
