At ZX, we produce both aluminum and steel cylinders. Our team of expert machinists, technicians and manufacturing professionals have more than 20 years of experience serving beverage,scuba,medical, fire safety and special industry.
When it comes to selecting metal for a gas cylinder, it’s important to consider both the overall work ability of the metal during the production process(which can affect complexity and cost) and the characteristics it retains after production,which affects its functionality in end-use applications. Learn more about the differences between the two metals to choose the right fit for you!
Aluminum is a non-corrosive, non-magnetic, and non-sparking metal. It’s also easy to work with, making it a popular choice for a wide variety of applications in consumer, commercial, and industrial systems. Steel, a strong, rugged material that can be transformed into multiple different classes of alloys, offers an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, hardness, toughness and fatigue strength.
Weight
Aluminum, a very lightweight metal with a good strength-to-weight ratio, weighs 2.7 g/cm3, approximately 33% of the weight of steel. Steel is a dense material, with a density of approximately 7,800 kg/m3.
Cost
While aluminum is not the most expensive metal on the market, it has become more costly due to increases in the raw material market price. Steel, on the other hand, is cheaper per pound of material than aluminum.
Corrosion
Aluminum is intrinsically resistant to corrosion. Aluminum parts are durable and reliable in high-humidity and even marine environments, and don’t require additional processes to stay corrosion-resistant, which simplifies production and ensures the anti-corrosion properties won’t scratch off or wear away over time. Steel doesn’t develop the same aluminum oxide anti-corrosive surface layer as aluminum. However, the material can be covered with coatings, paint, and other finishes. Some steel alloys, such as stainless steel, are specially fabricated to resist corrosion.
Malleability
Aluminum is very malleable and easy to work with. It has a high degree of elasticity, so manufacturers can form seamless, complex constructions without cracking the metal. Aluminum is the superior choice for spinning processes and creating parts with deep, straight walls that need to meet tight tolerance levels. Steel is harder than aluminum, which requires more force and power to produce manufactured products. However, the finished product is stronger, tougher, and can better resist deformation over time.
Contact Us
At ZX, our team of expert manufacturers can help you select the right materials for your project and create the specific goods you need. Both steel and aluminum are highly versatile, advantageous materials for gas cylinders. Contact us today to learn more about our manufacturing and products!
Post time: Feb-06-2023