I believe many friends have been, are or are about to face such a choice: aluminum plates and stainless steel plates. Both of these are excellent metal plates and are frequently used in industries and fields such as construction and decoration.

When we are faced with a choice between the two, how should we make the choice to maximize our benefits?

　　So let's first take a look at the characteristics of these two materials!

　　1Price:
　　Generally speaking, the price of stainless steel plates is higher than that of aluminum plates. On the one hand, this is due to market influence; on the other hand, it is also because of cost issues.

　　2Strength and weight:
　　In terms of strength, although aluminum plates are not as strong as stainless steel plates, they are lighter in weight. Under the same conditions, they are basically only about one-third the weight of stainless steel plates, and thus have become one of the main materials for aircraft manufacturing.

　　3Corrosion
　　In this regard, both types of plates perform well. However, since stainless steel plates are composed of elements such as iron, chromium, nickel, manganese and copper, and chromium is also added, in extreme cases, the corrosion resistance of stainless steel plates is better.

　　Although aluminum plates also have high oxidation resistance and corrosion resistance, when they are oxidized, their surface may turn white. Moreover, due to their own properties, aluminum is not suitable for long-term use in extremely acidic or alkaline environments.

　　4Thermal conductivity:
　　In terms of thermal conductivity, aluminum plates have better thermal conductivity than stainless steel plates, which is one of the main reasons why aluminum plates are often used in automotive radiators and air conditioning units.

　　5Usability:
　　In terms of usability, aluminum plates are quite soft and easy to cut and shape. However, due to their high wear resistance, stainless steel plates may be difficult to use, and the hardness of stainless steel plates is also greater than that of aluminum. In comparison, they are more difficult to shape.

　　6Electrical conductivity:
　　Compared with most metals, stainless steel plates have very poor electrical conductivity, while aluminum plates are an excellent electrical material. Due to their high electrical conductivity, light weight, and corrosion resistance, they are often used to manufacture high-voltage overhead power lines.

　　7Strength:
　　In terms of strength, if the weight factor is not taken into account, stainless steel plates are stronger than aluminum plates.

　　To sum up, the selection of plates can be based on the different current usage scenarios. For plates with high strength, stainless steel plates can be chosen. However, if lightweight is required, there are demands for shaping, and more profile patterns are needed, aluminum plates would be a more suitable option.