Stainless steel and aluminium may look alike, but don’t be fooled – the strengths and weaknesses of each metal can make or break your project. Making the wrong choice could mean the difference between a strong, sturdy structure that lasts for decades, versus one that starts failing in just a few months.
The specialists at MG Metals have supplied metal components for all sorts of projects, big and small, and we’ve seen firsthand how the right metal makes all the difference. Below, we dive into the characteristics of stainless steel and aluminium to help you pick the best option for your project’s long-term success.
When Should You Choose Stainless Steel for Your Project?
First things first, let’s look at stainless steel. An alloy of iron, chromium, nickel, and a few other elements, it’s found everywhere – from the fork in your hand to the giant shipping containers at the port – due to its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion.
You should choose stainless steel for your project if…
- Strength is your top priority. Stainless steel’s reputation for strength is well-earned, as its high carbon content makes it much stronger and more durable than aluminium. If you know your structure will be exposed to a lot of weight or force, choosing stainless steel makes it much less likely to warp or bend over time.
- You need to guarantee hygiene. Stainless steel is considered more hygienic than aluminium as it’s less reactive with foods, meaning it won’t leach into your food or alter the taste. Aluminium, on the other hand, can react with acidic or alkaline foods, causing slight metallic taste or discoloration. Stainless steel also has a smooth, non-porous surface that resists harbouring bacteria and is easy to clean and disinfect. Aluminium can develop tiny pits over time, which can trap bacteria.
- Your structure will be in a damp, salty, or acidic environment. Both stainless steel and aluminium resist corrosion, but stainless steel has the edge. This is because stainless steel contains chromium, which forms a protective oxide layer that prevents rust. Aluminium forms a similar layer, but it’s not as strong.
- Your structure will be exposed to high heats. Stainless steel will warp eventually, but it can handle much higher heats than aluminium without melting or losing its shape – its melting point is around 1,510°C, compared to alumnium’s 660°C.
When Should You Choose Aluminium for Your Project?
Just like stainless steel, aluminium is everywhere you look – from food packaging to electrical wires. It’s a popular choice because of its low weight and easy workability.
You should choose aluminium for your project if…
- You need something lightweight. Aluminium is much lighter than steel, which makes it better suited for situations where weight reduction is crucial, such as in aeroplanes and car frames.
- You’re working on a complex design. Aluminium is much easier to shape and bend than stainless steel, making it ideal for products with intricate designs. Stainless steel is harder and requires more powerful tools to work with.
- Electrical conductivity is important. Aluminium is a good conductor of electricity, while stainless steel is not. This makes aluminium a better choice for electrical applications like wires and cables.
- Your product needs to conduct heat. Aluminium is a much better heat conductor than stainless steel, which allows it to transfer heat much more quickly. This makes aluminium a good material for heat sinks and the bottoms of cookware, where you want heat to be distributed evenly and quickly across the surface.
Talk to MG Metals, the UK’s Leading Stainless Steel and Aluminium Suppliers
Still not sure which metal is perfect for your project? No worries! With over 30 years of experience supplying custom-cut metal, MG Metal’s specialists are more than happy to offer expert recommendations. Afterwards, we can supply you with the exact pieces you need to get started!
We offer a wide range of aluminium and stainless steel at the most competitive prices around, with our free custom cutting service guaranteeing you get the perfect dimensions for your needs.
Want to save time? We can help there too! Our processing services include bar billeting, prefabrication, finishing, and more, all done to the highest quality standards. We also prioritise fast turnaround times to minimise downtime and keep your project on track.
If you’re ready to make your project a reality, get a free quote online or call us on 01794 521070 today!