Aluminium and stainless steel look similar in appearance without actual contact, but they are actually completely different metal materials. Here are 10 differences to keep in mind when deciding which type of sheet metal a project plans to use.
1. The first is the strength to weight ratio. Aluminum sheets are generally not as strong as stainless steel sheets, and are only one-third the weight of stainless steel sheets under the same conditions. This is also the main reason why aircraft are mainly made of aluminum sheets.
2. Followed by corrosion. Stainless steel plate is composed of iron, chromium, nickel, manganese, copper and other elements. The addition of chromium to these elements provides good corrosion resistance. In addition, since the material is non-porous, the corrosion resistance of the material is also improved. Aluminum sheet also has high oxidation and corrosion resistance, mainly due to its passivation layer. When the aluminum plate is oxidized, the surface will also turn white. However, in some extreme acidic or alkaline environments, aluminum can rapidly corrode with catastrophic consequences.
3. The thermal conductivity (thermal conductor) of aluminum plate is better than that of stainless steel plate. This is also one of the main reasons why aluminum sheets are often used in automotive radiators and air conditioning units.
4. Aluminum plate is often cheaper than stainless steel plate in cost.
5. In terms of availability, the aluminum sheet is quite soft and easy to cut and shape. Stainless steel sheets can be difficult to work with due to their high wear resistance, and they are also harder than aluminum sheets, making them more difficult to form.
6. In terms of welding performance, stainless steel plate welding is relatively easy, while aluminum welding is more difficult to process.
7. In terms of heat resistance, the maximum temperature that stainless steel plates can operate is much higher than that of aluminum plates. Usually, aluminum plates become very soft at about 400 °C.
8. Conductivity, compared to most metals, the conductivity performance of stainless steel plate is poor. Aluminum plate is a very good power material. High-voltage overhead power lines are usually made of aluminum because of its high electrical conductivity, light weight, and corrosion resistance.
9. In terms of strength, stainless steel plate is stronger than aluminum plate, if the weight factor is not considered.
10. Stainless steel plate and food, stainless steel plate and food have poor reactivity. The color and flavor of food may be affected by the aluminum plate.