Aluminum tile trim and stainless steel tile trim materials differences

Aluminum tile trim and stainless steel tile trim materials differences

Aluminum tile trim and stainless steel tile trim materials differences

9 differences between aluminum tile trim and stainless steel tile trim 

Aluminum tile trim and Stainless Steel tile trim have the same function and the materials might look similar, but they are actually quite different.

Keep these 9 differences in mind when deciding which type of metal materials to use in your next project:

1.Strength to weight ratio

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

This is the main reason why aircraft are made from Aluminum.

2.Cost

Aluminum is typically cheaper than stainless steel. The stainless steel tile trim cost is 3-4 times of aluminum tile trim products.

3.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. 

When aluminum is oxidized, its surface will turn white and will sometimes pit.

In some extreme acidic or base environments, Aluminum may corrode rapidly with catastrophic results.

4. Work-ability

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.

5.Thermal Conductivity

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

One of the main reasons it is used for car radiators and air conditioning units.

6.Welding

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

7.Strength

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

8.Thermal properties

Stainless can be used at much higher temperatures than aluminum which can become very soft above about 400 degrees.

9.Electrical Conductivity

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

Due to its high conductance, light weight, and corrosion resistance, high-voltage overhead power lines are generally made of aluminum.

Honstar Aluminum Products offer aluminum tile trim profiles and finished products for our customers.

One stop service and total solution.