If you plan to install a piping or tubing system, you may want to use aluminum for its beneficial properties. However, with industrial applications, stainless steel pipe and fittings are almost always the best materials to use. Here are some reasons to consider stainless steel for your needs.
The Benefits of Steel
Stainless steel is steel with alloys to make it anti-corrosive and anti-bacterial. You enjoy all the benefits of using iron or steel pipe without the downside or rust or corrosion. For example, steel is stronger and more shock-resistant than the strongest aluminum alloy. This is an important consideration when you need to place piping systems where weight and vibrations are issues.
Welding
It is far easier to weld steel or stainless steel pipe and fittings than aluminum. In fact, one of the most popular aluminum alloys (2024) should never be welded. 7075 aluminum alloy has a very strong strength to weight ratio but is nearly impossible to successfully weld. On the other hand, welding stainless steel is not usually a problem.
Liquid Systems
Water lines are an important part of many commercial and industrial facilities. Most facilities rely on a network of piping for processing and cooling materials. Aluminum is not recommended for water systems because alloy metals may leach into the water. In many cases, stainless steel pipe and fittings are required when certain sanitary specifications must be met. In fact, stainless steel pipe is preferred for most of the food and beverage processing industry.
Recycling
Most people know about aluminum recycling because it can save energy and valuable resources. However, stainless steel is also recyclable, and 100 percent of the material can be used. When you choose stainless steel for your piping systems, you pay more than aluminum. Yet, for industrial applications, stainless steel is the only viable choice.
