Aluminium alloy (7003)

Material

7003 alloy combines the low weight of aluminium with higher strength and handles rain and fresh water well. Rinse it after salt water. Browse the swivels.

Products: Aluminium alloy (7003)

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What 7003 alloy is

A wrought aluminium alloy with zinc and magnesium, related to 7075 alloy but almost free of copper. In air and fresh water it resists ordinary corrosion better than 7075; in strength it sits below it and above common aluminium alloys.

Why we use it for hardware

Our swivels are made from it: the rotating links of leashes, where low weight matters and which have to transmit the pull of the dog. All pieces are anodised. Compare the load capacity of the swivel with what the whole leash needs to hold.

When to choose it and when to look elsewhere

  • Lightweight leashes: where every gram counts.
  • Everyday outdoor use: it handles rain and fresh water well.

On a smaller budget, choose swivels made of zinc die casting. 7003 alloy is not suitable for regular use in salt water.

How it ages and how to care for it

Dyed anodising, such as black, can slowly fade in strong sun. After salt water, rinse the swivel with fresh water and let it dry. Replace a swivel that is bent, cracked or turns stiffly.

Good to know

Copper-free 7xxx series alloys, to which 7003 belongs, are known for their tendency to stress corrosion cracking: a part under tensile load can slowly crack in a corrosive environment. That is one more reason to rinse salt off a swivel. In industry, 7003 is used for example for scaffolding, lifts and air cargo containers.

Values describe the bare material without a surface finish; the finish page says what changes.

  • Price

    Higher

    A higher price class, typically associated with a particular material property, manufacturing method or finish. Check the other specifications to see what accounts for the difference.

  • Strength

    High

    Suitable for strong, repeated pulling. Holds its shape under sustained loads better than materials in the lower strength classes.

  • Corrosion resistance

    Outdoor exposure

    Suitable for typical outdoor contact with rain and dew without a protective coating. More demanding environments, such as salt water or chemicals, require a different rating.

  • Water

    Fresh-water immersion

    Suitable for repeated wetting and immersion in fresh water. Any care requirements for the complete product still depend on its other materials and components.

Weight Very light The lowest weight class in this comparison. Useful for small products and accessories where every gram matters.
Allergy risk Low contact-reaction risk The material has a low risk of causing a contact reaction in normal use. Individual sensitivity varies, and the selected surface finish and other components also matter.
Aging Minor changes Over time slight dulling or minor surface changes may occur. This does not affect function, but is visible on closer inspection.
Maintenance No special care No special care is required. Rinse with water or wipe with a cloth when cleaning is needed.