Over the years, aluminium has become part and parcel of our lives as a result of its growing use in architecture and infrastructure. Aluminium usage has spread into all living and working spaces as doors, window frames, storage units, outdoor and indoor furniture are all being designed with aluminium components due to numerous advantages related to its inherent characteristics.
Several factors have contributed towards the increased use of aluminium in industries that were previously dominated by stainless steel. As the debate of Aluminium vs Stainless continues, this shift highlights the need to evaluate both materials more closely In this article, we look at the following aspects, to determine which material might be best suited for your next project:
Most differences between aluminium and stainless steel are quite straightforward, and are determining factors for which of the two we pick as a raw material for manufacturing and construction.
Regardless of the grade or alloy composition of stainless steel, aluminium will always have a lower density than stainless steel – ideally weighing about a third of an identical structure in stainless steel. This can be hugely advantageous in construction, particularly in high-rise structures where more weight would need more support as height increases. Of course, the weight of aluminium compared to steel also makes handling infrastructure and logistics more convenient than it would be to handle heavier stainless steel objects.
Malleability refers to the ability to mould a material, and depends on its composition on an atomic level. As an element, aluminium is composed of atomic particles of the same size and shape which can easily slip and slide over each other when a force is applied. This means that aluminium is malleable by nature and can be shaped into complex forms without cracking, allowing architects and designers to create custom window profiles, curved railings, and intricate gates. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is an alloy – a combination of varying metallic atomic particles which move around less freely, even when a force is applied. Being an alloy therefore makes stainless steel a lot less malleable, giving aluminium the advantage of being easier to mould into objects and components of different shapes and sizes.
Both aluminium and stainless steel can be manufactured to acquire a variety of appearances and finishes. The malleability of aluminium, though, does make it easier to work with, allowing for optimal versatility to be achieved in goods manufacture and construction.
Something that the construction industry would consider is the strength of aluminium versus stainless steel strength. For the same reason that it is less malleable, stainless steel has greater natural tensile strength than aluminium. However, this comes at the cost of added weight, malleability, and a few other factors. With advances in technology, it is now possible to significantly increase the tensile strength of aluminium by means of treatment, thereby making aluminium more durable and better suited for heavy-duty use than it was in the past.
Aluminium is a significantly better conductor of both electricity and heat than stainless steel. In fact, aluminium wires have been found to be nearly as effective at conducting electricity as copper wires. Despite having a lower melting point than stainless steel, aluminium also conducts and dissipates heat far more effectively. These advantages with conductivity make aluminium a sought-after choice in the manufacture of electrical appliances and components.
Both, aluminium and stainless steel, are known to be resistant to corrosion, brought about by the chromium oxide layer that coats stainless steel, and the aluminium oxide layer that coats aluminium. However, unlike stainless steel, there is no iron component in aluminium, which means that there is no risk of rusting when it comes to aluminium. This is particularly useful in areas such as Negombo and Trincomalee, where the salty sea spray can cause stainless steel to corrode over time, even if fortified with extra coatings. The natural protective oxide layer that forms on aluminium, on the other hand, shields it from sea spray, rain and humidity. The absence of iron also means that aluminium does not exhibit ferromagnetism, which makes it easier to work with in the presence of magnetism.
Although stainless steel is the most recycled metal, aluminium is, in fact, the most recyclable metal. This means that with the right processes in place, aluminium could be the most environmentally-friendly metal option available for manufacturing and construction. It is believed that in the United States, three quarters of its aluminium is in a continual loop of usage due to its recyclability, making it a highly sustainable raw material.
Having said all of the above, the ultimate question is – is aluminium cheaper than steel? Aluminium might appear to be pricier by weight than stainless steel. However, it is in fact significantly more cost effective as its low density means that it has more usage per unit weight than stainless steel. Aluminium goods, furniture and infrastructure are also easy to maintain, usually only needing a simple regular wipe-down with water and a mild soap/detergent. Your local supplier/manufacturer would advise on any further basic maintenance requirements.
Following is a summary of the differences between aluminium and stainless steel.
| Aluminium | Stainless Steel | |
|---|---|---|
| Density | Lighter (1/3 the weight of steel) | Heavier |
| Malleability | Highly malleable | Rigid, less formable |
| Tensile Strength | Moderate (can be enhanced) | High |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent (no rusting) | Moderate (can corrode over time) |
| Conductivity | Higher (heat and electricity) | Lower |
| Sustainability | 100% recyclable, low carbon | Recyclable, but higher energy |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean (no rusting) | Needs polishing and treatment |
| Cost Efficiency | High utility-to-weight ratio | Higher raw cost per use |
Looking at the differences between aluminium and stainless steel, there is no doubt that aluminium is an excellent raw material for use in construction, architecture and infrastructure, and much more. Its low density, malleability, conductivity, corrosion resistance, recyclability and cost effectiveness give it an edge over alternatives such as stainless steel.
At Swisstek Aluminium, we are committed to providing you with the most innovative aluminium solutions that optimise the use of this unique raw material. The services we offer include custom extrusions of up to 21 feet, clear/black anodizing, Qualicoat-certified powder coating, precision fabrication, and export-ready packaging solutions.
Our aluminium profiles meet internationally-recognised quality standards including ANSI H35.2, BS EN 755, and ISO 6362 strength standards, warranting compliance for both local and export use. We invest in state-of-the-art knowledge and technology to ensure that your investment in our product is the best decision you make.
Look through our cutting-edge aluminium product range to find out more about how we can provide you with tailor-made solutions for your aluminium requirements.
