Aluminum & Stainless steel，how to choose?

 

Usually, we’re use aluminum and stainless steel for the metal frame of outdoor furniture, whether it is to product sofas, dining sets, sun loungers, etc. The following describes the difference between the two materials:

What’s stainless steel?

Stainless steel is made up of iron, chromium, nickel, manganese, and copper.It’s non-porous and non-corrosive with higher resistance to rust as well.

But can it still stain? Yes. A scratch to the surface can lead to rust.So can heated water that leaves deposits and chlorides found in salt, water, cleaner and quaternary salts.But even though the possibility to stain is there, it won’t rust, corrode or rust as easily as ordinary steel.

What’s aluminum?

Aluminum has higher oxidation and corrosion resistance because of passivation. When aluminum is oxidized, its surface will turn white and will sometimes pit if used in some extreme acidic or base environments.

Aluminum is more lightweight than other metals and is strong.It’s particularly strong when blended with alloy elements, hence being ideal for structural parts and equipment housings as well as heavy gauge cookware.

Aluminum is also a great conductor of heat.

Differences Between Aluminum and Stainless Steel:

1.Strength to weight ratio. Aluminum is typically not as strong as steel, but it is also almost one third of the weight.

2.Corrosion. Stainless steel is made up of iron, chromium, nickel, manganese and copper.  The chromium is added as an agent to provide corrosion resistance.  Also, because it is non-porous the resistance to corrosion is increased. Aluminum has a high oxidation and corrosion resistance mainly due to its passivation layer.

3.Thermal Conductivity. Aluminum has a much better thermal conductivity (conductor of heat) than stainless steel.

4.Cost. Aluminum is typically cheaper than stainless steel.

5.Workability. Aluminum is fairly soft and easier to cut and form. Due to its resistance to wear and abrasion, Stainless can be difficult to work with. Stainless steels are harder and are especially harder to form than aluminum.

6.Welding. Stainless is relatively easy to weld, while Aluminum can be difficult.

7.Thermal properties. Stainless can be used at much higher temperatures than Aluminum which can become very soft above about 400 degrees.

8.Electrical Conductivity. Stainless steel is a really poor conductor compared to most metals. Aluminum is a very good conductor of electricity. .

9.Strength. Stainless steel is stronger than Aluminum (provided weight is not a consideration).

Goodwin outdoor furniture provide you with pieces that meet your expectations for quality, comfort, and design, with additional pieces, colors, and fabric options available by special order. Please inquire for lead times on orders.Email : info@fayhero.com