Aluminum Vs Stainless Steel: Which Is Better For Fabrication
Aluminum and stainless steel are commonly used in fabrication. Aluminum and stainless steel are widely used in the metals sector due to their versatility and corrosion resistance. Fabricators work with metals for a variety of purposes, including construction, manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, industrial, and engineering, as well as a variety of ordinary household objects and working tools.
Despite their similar appearances, aluminum and stainless steel have distinct characteristics. It is essential to select appropriate materials for the desired result. When deciding between the two for fabrication work. Before making a decision, it's vital to grasp the benefits of aluminum as well as the benefits of stainless steel, as well as to weigh the pros and cons of each.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a low-density, non-ferrous alloy. Aluminum is routinely alloyed with other metals to offer it a variety of superior qualities due to its poor tensile strength. 3003 aluminum and 3004 aluminum are two of the most prevalent aluminum alloys. It doesn’t contain iron.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a ferrous alloy that contains a minimum of 11% chromium. Stainless steel has the quality of heat resistance and anticorrosion. Stainless steel, like other steels, is largely made up of iron and carbon. However, it also contains several other alloying elements, the most significant of which is chromium. Stainless steel alloys with nickel, magnesium, molybdenum, and nitrogen are also common.
Aluminum Vs. Stainless Steel: Comparision
1. Based On Strength
Aluminum is a lighter, denser, and stronger material than stainless steel. Despite being one-third the weight of steel, aluminum has a far higher strength-to-weight ratio than stainless steel. Its lightweight and high strength-to-weight ratio make it excellent for various automotive and aerospace parts and components, helping to enhance fuel efficiency while improving load capacity. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is preferred by fabricators for structural components as well as the design and architectural features of structures due to its strength.
2. Based On Cost
Steel is more widespread and accessible, and it can be easily recycled and resold, making it much less expensive than aluminum. Even after being processed, galvanized, chem-treated, and painted, steel can be less expensive than its lighter cousin. Because aluminum is more difficult to produce or obtain in scrap, its price can be slightly higher.
3. Based On Electrical & Thermal Conductivity
Aluminum, in comparison to stainless steel, is a greater conductor of electrical and thermal energies. Choose aluminum when conductivity is a key factor in determining which metal to employ for a given application. Aluminum is suitable for power lines because of its high electrical conductivity, lightweight, and corrosion resistance. Aluminum is often used as a heat sink for devices that require rapid cooling, such as radiators, LED lights, electronics, and air conditioning systems because it is a thermal conductor.
4. Based On Weldability
If welding is required for your application, stainless steel is significantly easier to weld than aluminum. Aluminum's high heat conductivity and low melting point make it difficult to work with. When aluminum begins to cool, it is known to experience hot cracking. The high tensile strength of stainless steel is 2-3 times that of aluminum, allowing it to generate welds that are as strong as or stronger than the parts it unites.
5. Based On Heat Resistance
Stainless steel has excellent thermal characteristics, making it ideal for high-temperature applications. At temperatures exceeding 200°C, aluminum begins to weaken, but stainless steel can be used at temperatures up to 400°C.
Conclusion
It can be difficult to choose between aluminum and stainless steel for any fabrication job. It would be in your best interest to talk to your fabricator about which material would be ideal for the job. It depends totally on the desirable qualities required to ensure the success of your product, whether it's aluminum vs stainless steel.