Aluminium vs. Stainless Steel: Choosing the Best Material for Your Metal Fabrication Project Needs
11 October 2021Metal fabrication projects generate parts and components made from metal materials. These projects are often carried out by manufacturers so that various industries can take advantage of their products.
Some metal fabrication processes that are being conducted by the manufacturers are cutting, welding, machining, punching, shearing, and casting. What is common about these processes is that they can utilise similar metal materials in coming up with the needed parts and components. Two common materials that are being maximised by the manufacturers are aluminium and stainless steel.
Aluminium and stainless steel are being used in various metal fabrication projects due to their reliable properties. But if you are only limited to just one metal material for your project, then here are some things about them that can help you choose the right one for you.
Corrosion Resistance
A lot of raw metal materials can be easily affected by corrosion, which is why they are often mixed with other metal elements to improve their corrosion resistance. Fortunately, both aluminium and stainless steel can resist corrosion. Aluminium, through its passivation layer, makes it highly resistant to corrosion. And with its flexibility and lightweight, aluminium can be utilised by the aerospace industry. Stainless steel, on the other hand, possesses chromium, which is a layer that protects it from corrosive elements. This factor makes stainless steel suitable for automotive and construction applications.
Thermal Conductivity
Now, if your application requires heat conduction processes, then you may opt for aluminium. Aluminium’s notable thermal conductivity makes it suitable for products in electronics. Even the automotive industry maximises aluminium as the main material for the cooling system components. Stainless steel is not that effective in transmitting heat, but it can conveniently withstand applications that are exposed to varying temperatures thanks to its higher melting point.
Overall Reactivity
Another factor that may help you choose the right metal material for your fabrication project is its overall reactivity. If you are thinking of generating parts and components for food-related applications, then you can maximise stainless steel. Stainless steel products can remain inactive and inert whenever they come in contact with most food products. This benefit can easily preserve their taste and quality. Aluminium, on the other hand, will only affect the flavour and colour of food products.
Strength and Weight
As for the tensile strength, stainless steel is much stronger than aluminium. Even if the material is under strenuous force, heat, or weight, stainless steel can still withstand them without obtaining damages. The notable tensile strength of stainless steel makes it recommended for the energy industry. Aluminium may not have the tensile strength of stainless steel, but it weighs considerably less than stainless steel. The weight of the aluminium makes it suitable for aircraft and marine elements.
To know more about these metal materials, you can contact us at Canfred Engineering.
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