blog FurnaceUnit 1200x675 1

Furnace Heat Chambers: Aluminized Steel vs Stainless Steel

Steel comes in several variations and each of them have unique qualities. Let us look at aluminized steel vs stainless steel.

First, what is aluminized steel?  Aluminized steel is steel that has been hot dip coated on both sides with aluminum-silicon alloy. This process assures a tight metallurgical bond between the steel sheet and its aluminium coating, producing a material with a unique combination of properties possessed neither by steel nor by aluminium alone.

Next, what is stainless steel?  Stainless steel  is a steel alloy with a minimum of 10.5% chromium by mass.

The economical aspect of these two varieties of steel is noticeable. Aluminized steel is cheaper than the stainless steel. This is because of the production cost of Aluminized steel is low when compared to the production cost of stainless steel.

The strength of these steels is also noticeable. The stainless steel is the stronger of the two. It is also more durable than aluminized steel. In respect to rusting, stainless steel does not rust. This is because of the presence of chromium. On the other hand, Aluminized steel can get corroded if the aluminum coat gets broken.

When comparing Aluminized steel vs stainless steel, Aluminized steel has high thermal conductivity. Unlike the aluminized steel, the stainless steel has a high thermal expansion coefficient, which means that it could change shape when exposed to overheat.

Some of the common products made from aluminized steel include builder grade water heaters, ranges, furnaces, space heaters and grills. Stainless steel is also used in the manufacture of many things like high end kitchen appliances, cookware, storage tanks and even in the construction industry.

Summary

  • Aluminized steel is cheaper than stainless steel.
  • The stainless steel is stronger. It is more durable than aluminized steel.
  • In respect to rusting, stainless steel does not rust. Aluminized steel can get corroded if the aluminum coat gets broken or overheated.
  • Stainless steel heat chambers usually come with longer warranties.
  • Aluminized steel has higher thermal conductivity.
  • Stainless has aesthetics when compared to aluminized steel. This is why stainless steel is used in high end kitchen appliance, which add to its beauty.
  • Higher end products (like kitchen appliances) are made from stainless steel. Cheaper items use aluminum steel to imitate stainless.