Distinction between Stainless Steel and Aluminium.

Stainless Steel and Aluminium are the 2 metals which are used in day to day life. They are like an inseparable element from utensils in the kitchen to screw in cars you can see it everywhere. Stainless steel and Aluminum are similar in appearance, but they have distinct characteristics that make them unique. In this article, we will discuss the characteristics which make them different from each other.

1.      Strength & Weight

Stainless steel and Aluminum are both strong materials, but steel is stronger. However, aluminum is almost 1/3rd of the weight of steel, it has a higher strength to weight ratio. When both strength and lightness and are needed, aluminum is an ideal choice. Hence aircraft and bodies of automobiles are made from aluminum.

2.      Cost

Stainless Steel is expensive compared to Aluminium; however, both can be purchased at affordable prices and both are highly recyclable environmentally-efficient materials.

3.      Corrosion Resistance

Both aluminum and stainless steel have corrosion resistant properties, however stainless has an edge because it is partly manufactured from chromium. The chromium in stainless steel offers it what is primarily an invisible shield against corrosion. when stainless steel will rust, this protective layer takes the strength of it. Once the rust is scrubbed away, the chromium shield simply renews itself.

Aluminum doesn't rust a similar manner steel does, however, it does corrode. aluminum also has a defend – a thin layer of aluminum oxide – that protects it from rust. However, this shield doesn't protect the metal from alternative types of corrosion.

4.      Conductivity

Stainless steel is a bad conductor compared Aluminum. Aluminum exceeds stainless steel in both electrical and thermal conductivity. The reason why aluminum used for things like cars, air conditioning units and even high-voltage power lines.

5.      Composition

Stainless steel is an alloy made up of iron, nickel, manganese, copper, and between 10 to 30 percent chromium oxides. Because it does not allow liquid or air to pass through it the resistance to corrosion is increased. 

Aluminum is a natural element and has high oxidation and corrosion resistance due to its passivation. 

When aluminum is oxidized, its surface will turn white and sometimes pit. Aluminum may corrode rapidly with catastrophic results, in extremely acidic or basic environments.

6.      Malleability.

 Aluminum is more malleable and elastic, making it easier to cut and form. This quality makes it great for projects like cooking pots and pans and tools. 

Stainless steel can be more difficult to work with due to its resistance to abrasion and forming, which means it is ideal for heftier projects like roofing, major appliances, computers, skyscrapers, and bridges. 

7.      Spark-ability. 

If you want to know the immediate difference between the two hard metals, subject each to a grinder. Stainless steel will give off sparks, while aluminum will not.

 While each material has a specific job both aluminum and stainless steel are important metals.