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Stainless steel and aluminum are two of the most widely used metals today, but many people are still having a difficult time distinguishing one from the other. This isn’t really surprising, given their very similar appearance. However, each material has its own unique attributes, making it more appropriate to use one over the other when it comes to specific applications. Here’s a simple guide on how you can make a distinction between the two metals.

What Are the Key Differences Between the Two Metals?

When you need to select the right material for the job, you have to look at several factors that highlight the differences between stainless steel and aluminum:

  • Weight: Aluminum is a lot lighter than stainless steel. In fact, stainless steel is generally two to three times denser.

  • Strength: Steel is extremely strong and won’t easily deform, bend, or warp when subjected to heat and pressure. 

  • Malleability: Unlike steel, aluminum is relatively easy to mold into different shapes since it’s a softer metal.

  • Resistance to Corrosion: Stainless steel is an alloy that’s designed to be highly resistant to corrosion. While aluminum is also good at keeping corrosion at bay in most situations, it doesn’t hold up well against acidity. 

Why Are Stainless Steel & Aluminum Important to People?

Stainless steelHighly utilized for its malleability and lightness, aluminum is the metal of choice when it comes to food packaging, aircraft, ships, trains, and other transportation vehicles. It’s also a good conductor of heat and electricity and is widely used for AC units, car engines, and high-voltage power lines. On the other hand, stainless steel is valued in the construction, medical, and food industries due to its high strength, resistance to corrosion, and ease of maintenance. It also doesn’t affect the taste of food, so cookware and cutlery are often made from stainless steel.

How Can You Tell Them Apart Based on Appearance?

At first glance, it’s easy to get confused over stainless steel and aluminum. However, if you put them alongside each other, you will notice that stainless steel is shinier and more silvery. Aluminum often has a duller texture and will appear grayer. When looking at sheet aluminum and stainless steel, it might be much harder to tell them apart. In this case, you can just observe which one is more pliable because that will most likely be aluminum. 

 

If you’re having difficulty choosing between stainless steel and aluminum for an industrial or commercial project, consult the experts at L. Levine & Co., Inc. in Cincinnati, OH. This reliable steel supplier has been providing clients with quality steel and aluminum supplies and services for over 70 years. Call them today at (513) 471-5900 for your aluminum and structural steel needs, or visit them online to learn more about their products.

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