In the world of aluminum products, 3-series aluminum sheets (represented by 3003) are the preferred material for many industrial projects due to their excellent rust resistance and good processing characteristics. As technical consultants at Jinan Zhongfu Aluminum, we receive many inquiries daily about the hardness of 3-series aluminum sheets. Today, let's discuss this topic and answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
Question 1: Why are some 3003 aluminum sheets soft and easy to bend, while others are hard and difficult to break?
This is probably the most frequently asked question by customers. The key to the answer lies in the aluminum sheet's "temper designation" – commonly referred to as "O temper," "H14 temper," "H18 temper," etc.
In Jinan Zhongfu Aluminum's production workshop, we adjust the hardness of the aluminum sheets by precisely controlling the degree of cold working. This process is like kneading dough:
"O-temper" (annealed state) aluminum sheets are like freshly kneaded dough, soft and smooth, easily shaped.
"H18-temper" (fully hardened state) is like dough that has been repeatedly kneaded, tough and strong, not easily deformed.
Professional Tip: 3-series aluminum is a non-heat-treatable aluminum alloy; its hardness increase mainly relies on cold working. Therefore, choosing the appropriate "temper" is crucial.
Question 2: O-temper, H14, H18... so many tempers, how do I choose?
In daily sales at Jinan Zhongfu Aluminum, we advise customers to select based on specific applications:
Choose O-temper: Suitable for deep drawing applications such as kitchenware stamping and craft production. Plates in this temper are as malleable as plasticine, allowing complex forming.
Choose H14/H24-temper (half hard): Our best-selling variant, offering an optimal balance of strength and formability. Ideal for bending processes like chassis casings and architectural decoration.
Choose H18-temper (full hard): For applications requiring "high rigidity" such as building exteriors and sign substrates, where stiffness and flatness are critical.
Jinan Zhongfu Aluminum Recommendation: If you are unsure about the right temper, our technical team is ready to provide professional advice.
Question 3: What are the differences between Webster, Brinell, and Rockwell hardness units?
At Jinan Zhongfu Aluminum's quality inspection and testing center, we often explain the differences between these hardness units to our customers:
Webster hardness (HW) is the most commonly used testing method in China, especially suitable for rapid on-site testing.
Brinell hardness (HB) provides more accurate results and is commonly used for laboratory testing.
Rockwell hardness (HRB) is more popular in Europe and America.
Practical advice: You don't need to delve into the conversion relationships between these units. At Jinan Zhongfu Aluminum, we ensure that every batch of products comes with a clear test report, giving you peace of mind when buying.
Core Advantages – Enhancing Cooperation with Confidence
Strength Guarantee: Decades of industry experience, dozens of production lines, annual capacity of 100,000 tons, stable supply of various aluminum coils and sheets;
Controllable Quality: Full traceability from raw materials to finished products, multiple testing checkpoints, meeting stringent domestic and international standards;
Precise Service: A professional team provides end-to-end support tailored to the needs of different industries and company types;
Reputation Testimonials: Serving over 100+ distributors, 3000+ end customers, and 100+ foreign trade companies, with a repurchase rate exceeding 85%, and products exported to over 30 countries and regions.
Summary
Choosing Jinan Zhongfu Aluminum means you gain more than just a material; you gain: higher product qualification rates, optimized production efficiency, stronger product competitiveness, and a more reliable brand partner.In conclusion, Choosing the right aluminum sheet hardness is like choosing the most capable assistant for your project.
Jinan Zhongfu Aluminum is willing to be your most reliable material consultant, helping you find the most suitable option among many choices. If you have any further questions about aluminum sheet hardness, please feel free to contact the technical team of Jinan Zhongfu Aluminum. We are dedicated to serving you.As a professional aluminum sheet and coil supplier, we not only provide high-quality products but also focus on offering professional technical support. Our engineering team is ready to answer your material selection questions and provide the most suitable hardness setting based on your needs.
Choosing Jinan Zhongfu Aluminum means choosing peace of mind, professionalism, and efficiency. Take action and contact us now: [email protected], Whatsapp:+86 17860138617, Wechat:+86 17860138617 or online form to get your customized product solution and quote.




