Metals are used almost in every aspect of our lives. Even though we don’t realise it, we are mostly in touch with metals in our everyday lifestyle. While they are different kinds of metals, aluminium, and stainless steel are known to be the most common metals used for general purposes. The reason is that aluminium and stainless steel are known to be the most versatile metals that can be used in different industries due to their different applications and properties. Hence, aluminium and stainless steel recycling mostly take place as these metals are always in higher demand.

The importance of these metals is simply unprecedented, but it requires you to have knowledge about them before you prepare them for recycling. In this guide, we will mainly focus on exploring the different characteristics of stainless steel and aluminium and find out their different applications and advantages. If you think that you have a lot of scrap aluminium and stainless steel, you can simply choose a reliable scrap metal recycler for aluminium and stainless steel recycling. However, do not forget to check the stainless steel and aluminium scrap prices in Perth offered by them.

So, let us take a look into the details of the difference between aluminium and stainless steel.

Corrosion resistance:

Stainless steel is known to be a corrosion-resistant metal, which is why it is widely used for environments that need resistance to corrosion and oxidation. Hence, stainless recycling has a huge importance because of its demand in chemical processing and marine industries along with food processing industries.  The content of chromium in stainless steel creates a passive oxide layer to protect from corrosion and makes it suitable for harsh environments.

Aluminium is also a corrosion-resistant metal, which is why you can get the best aluminium scrap price in Perth. It is widely used in different sectors like construction, automotive, packaging and aerospace industries. The metal forms a protective oxide layer naturally when it remains exposed to air. Hence, it offers resistance to atmospheric corrosion. However, keeping them exposed to alkaline and acidic environments can corrode the metal.

Fundamental properties:

Stainless steel is an alloy that comprises chromium, iron, and different other elements like nickel, manganese, et cetera. The presence of chromium makes stainless steel gain the property of being corrosion resistant. Some of the most common properties that you will experience with stainless steel metals include unimaginable strength, durability, and resistance to staining and corrosion. The alloy of stainless steel provides different kinds of hardness, strength, and machinability to this metal.

Aluminium is known to be one of the lightweight metals, which comprises 99% aluminium and the addition of other elements like magnesium, silicon, zinc and copper. Some of the most common properties of aluminium that make it in demand include non-magnetic corrosion resistance and lightweight metal. The alloys of aluminium can be customised for specific applications and provide exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity.

Durability and strength

Stainless steel is commonly known to be extremely strong and durable compared to aluminium alloys. This is particularly true when it comes to resistance to deformation and tensile strength. The toughness and durability make it a common choice for structural applications that need longevity and strength.

Aluminium alloys also have a wide range of strength, which greatly depends on their composition and processing techniques. Even when it might not be as strong as stainless steel, it has sufficient strength for several applications due to its lightweight properties.

Density and weight

Stainless steel applications can be found everywhere from residential to commercial sectors. The reason is that stainless steel is heavier and denser compared to aluminium. This is the reason why it has become suitable for different kinds of applications that prioritise strength and durability over weight.

Aluminium on the other hand is known to be extremely lightweight. To compare, aluminium is one-third the density of steel. Hence, it becomes an ideal choice for the areas that need to save a lot of weight, especially in the automotive and aerospace industries. Hence, if you receive a lot of scrap aluminium, you can simply sell them at the best aluminium scrap price in Perth.

Applications in different industries:

The reason why stainless steel recycling is predominant in different parts of the world, especially in Perth is because of its wide range of applications. Stainless steel is used in the transportation, medical, construction, and food and beverages industries which have the highest demand. From roofing and cladding, automated exhaust systems, storage tanks, and processing equipment to surgical instruments, medical devices and implants, stainless steel is heavily required.

When it comes to aluminium applications, it is equally in demand due to being used in some of the biggest sectors in the world. The most common applications include aerospace, construction, packaging, and automotive industries which have the biggest shares in the world. From aircraft wings to interior components, Automotive components and wheels, window frames and doors to beverage cans and foil packaging, aluminium has a multitude of applications.

Promote sustainability with aluminium and stainless steel recycling

As you clearly understand by now, the diverse application of aluminium and stainless steel in different industries, there is a need for prioritising recycling. Rather than disposing of the aluminium and steel waste that you get from households, construction, and other commercial sites, it is simply a good choice to choose a metal recycler to get them recycled and make them as good as new.

Recycling aluminium and stainless steel is a great approach for resource conservation, energy efficiency and environmental protection. This way the sectors will be able to receive high-quality metals at comparatively lower rates and reduce the need for mining activities which are resource intensive.

Runabout Metals ensures aluminium and stainless steel recycling

Whether you receive a lot of aluminium or stainless steel scrap from the manufacturing industry or construction projects, you can simply get in touch with Runabout Metals. Not only will we provide you with the best stainless steel and aluminium scrap prices in Perth, but we will also make sure to provide collection and pick-up service from the sites. Even if you have copper scraps, we take pride in providing the best copper scrap price in Perth. We request you collaborate with us and work together to create a sustainable future with effective recycling solutions.

Together, we will be able to create a positive impact and support the circular economy.