The investment casting process can be effectively used for both stainless steel and aluminum casting. When choosing the best material for your parts, consider these facts:
- Strength vs. Weight – Aluminum is not as strong, but approximately one third the weight, giving it an excellent strength-weight ratio.
- Heat Resistance – Stainless steel has a much higher heat tolerance, which can make it more suitable for certain applications. Aluminum softens at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Workability – Aluminum is more malleable than stainless steel, which can make it easier to work with and more cost-effective in some cases.
- Welding – Aluminum is more difficult to weld than stainless steel.
- Electric Conductivity – Aluminum is an excellent conductor of electricity. Stainless steel is poor.
- Cost – Stainless steel usually costs more than aluminum but is well worth it for some applications.
