Aluminized steel - the perfect combination of aluminum and steel

Aluminized steel is a type of coated steel that has a hot-dip coating of aluminum or aluminum-silicon added to its surface, which provides better corrosion and rust resistance than steel. Hot dipping is a process in which steel is dipped into an aluminum barrel, which imparts exceptional surface properties to ordinary steel, significantly enhancing its properties and physical properties, making it comparable to stainless steel. The durability of steel and the corrosion resistance of aluminum combine to create a metal that is more versatile and versatile.

The advantages of aluminized steel are reflected in several aspects.

First, it has dual function corrosion protection. Aluminized steel protects against direct chemical attack and electrochemical action. Direct chemical corrosion is often referred to as dry corrosion, while electrochemical action is referred to as wet corrosion. Both corrosion mechanisms exist in most industrial environments.

Second, it can couple with other metals. Stainless steel is a common material that competes with aluminized steel in terms of corrosion resistance. However, when combined with other metals like steel, it tends to promote an electrochemical reaction called galvanic corrosion. Aluminized steel has no problem with galvanic corrosion. Aluminum coatings are more anodized than steel. Therefore, it is consumed by corrosion rather than by adjacent metal parts.

Third, it costs less. Aluminized steel is much less expensive than stainless steel. This is because in aluminized steel, the main structural component of the finished part is still plain carbon steel. Aluminum alloy coatings are only 30 to 270 grams per square meter or 0.10 to 0.90 ounces per square foot of surface area. Most of the cost of aluminized steel goes to the operating expenses of the hot dip process.

Fourth, it has excellent high temperature resistance. Aluminized steel is suitable for temperatures up to 700°C. This maximum temperature varies with the type of aluminum coating and carbon steel base. At these temperatures, the mechanical properties of the matrix are maintained. Aluminium-coated steel is an ideal material for structural parts of aluminium coated steel tubes, heat exchanger tubes, automobile mufflers, exhaust pipes and burners.

Fifth, it has good thermal reflectivity. Aluminum has high reflectivity in the visible spectrum, as does reflected infrared radiation. Infrared radiation is a common form of thermal energy or heat in furnaces and burners. Aluminized steel can reflect up to 80% of incident radiation, depending on the surface quality of the coating.