Aluminium and Stainless steel may look pretty similar, but they have some fundamental differences. Both are widely used: you’ll find Stainless steel in everything from cutlery and household appliances up to ships and infrastructure projects. Because of its light weight, aluminium is widely used in aircraft, bicycles and cars, amongst other things. Looking at the main differences between the two should help highlight which metal is right for you.
Strength
There’s no denying the fact that stainless steel is much stronger than aluminium. But this strength comes at a cost – it’s a much heavier material….
Strength to weight ratio
Aluminium is about one third of the weight of stainless steel – hence the reason it’s used in industries such as aeroplane and bicycle manufacturing. You’ll also find aluminium sheet widely used in the automotive sector. So, although Stainless steel is stronger, the strength to weight ratio of aluminium is much better.
Cost
Typically, commercial quality aluminium and stainless steel are similar in price per kilogram, but due to aluminium being lighter, it often makes it more cost effective.
Typically, commercial quality aluminium and stainless steel are similar in price per kilogram, but due to aluminium being lighter, it often makes it more cost effective.
Corrosion
With good corrosion resistance properties, aluminium does not rust.
But stainless steel takes the advantage here as it has chromium added, giving it a protective film and excellent corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is also non-porous, giving it an extra level of corrosion resistance.
Conductivity
Stainless steel is one of the worst conductors of electricity, whereas aluminium is a very good electrical conductor. Likewise, when it comes to heat, aluminium is a better conductor. However, stainless steel can be used at higher temperatures than aluminium, which will soften at higher temperatures.
Malleability
Aluminium is easier to work with: it’s relatively soft and easier to cut, stretch and manipulate. You can bend aluminium into shape without breaking it a lot easier than you can stainless steel, which, as it is harder to form, can be more difficult to work with.
Hopefully this rundown has given you an understanding of the fundamental differences between aluminium and stainless steel – for any further information, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Hopefully this rundown has given you an understanding of the fundamental differences between aluminium and stainless steel – for any further information, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
