Question

Explain why, under some circumstances, it is not advisable to weld a structure that is fabricated with a 3003 aluminum alloy. Hint: you may want to consult?

Answer 1

The 3003 aluminum alloy is made up of 1.25% Magnesium and 0.1% Copper. This combination is designed to increase the strength of the material over other types of alloys such as those of the 1000 series. This alloy provides a medium strength and can be educated by cold work.

The alloy is not heat treatable and generally has good formability, corrosion resistance and weldability.

However, being a material that hardens by cold work, welding a 3003 Aluminum structure will cause the body to undergo recrystallization which will generate a loss in the 'resistance' of the material and the force capable of withstanding. If this aluminum will be used for structural purposes, it should not be welded. It would be better to perform the structure with a 6061 aluminum, which has similar characteristics and is not so affected by welding.