Aluminum vs Stainless Steel
Aluminum appearing colors which may range from light gray to silvery white. It is the 13th element of the periodic table, belonging to the boron group. Preferred for uses of cellphone and notebook casings, exterior decoration for buildings, kitchen utensils and substitute to any other metal because of its ability to resist corrosion, it is also widely available in the world as aluminum is the most abundant metal and third most abundant element after oxygen and silicon. It is lightweight and easy to work with, it is nonsparking and nonmagnetic, additionally, it is malleable and ductile. Purely, aluminum is a weak metal it is about half as weak when it comes to electric conduction compared to copper but combining pure aluminum with certain minerals (which may reach to 270) will yield a very strong and light weight alloy.
Another slow corroding substance is the stainless steel, it does not exist as a pure element but it is an alloy of different elements like chromium which accounts around 10-12% of its density. Also known as CRES or corrosive-resistant steel, this material is preferred than that of a regular steel. It is also considered as one of the most hygienic surfaces for it’s use as kitchen utensil because it can be easily cleaned and the normal surface does not contain pores or cracks that may become a breeding ground for bacteria. Moreover, stainless steel does not affect the flavor of food and it can be used for long time purposes. The most remarkable quality of stainless steel is being ‘stain free’ which duly encompasses that it can be used for heavy duty works. Some massive structures like the gateway arch in St. Louis, is made from or at least covered by stainless steel. Stainless steel is the ideal material for most things in a cruise ship, due to the vessel’s consistent exposure to the sea; the salty air tends to hasten the corrosion of the materials on board. Covering it at least with stainless steel will save the captain from worrying about this problem.
By comparison, Aluminum is non magnetic, lighter in weight, a stronger heat conductor and more abundant than stainless steel. On the other hand, stainless steel is a stronger material than the aluminum so it is designed for heavy duty works. The preference of aluminum of stainless steel is greatly affected by the price, since aluminum is more common, it is more likely that it is cheaper. However, there are many types of stainless steel designed for different functions. The difference is clear both materials have their own weaknesses and strengths; it is the user who will define which of these characteristics is important based on how the item is used.
Summary:
Aluminum is the most abundant metal in the earth compassing a total of around 8-9% of the total weight.
Stainless steel is not pure by nature, it is an alloy of different metals.
Both materials corrode slowly.
Aluminum is lighter, non magnetic and a stronger heat conductor than stainless steel.
Stainless steel is a stronger material than aluminum and it is designed for heavy duty work.