For many commercial applications, metal enclosures offer some of the best options you can choose. In fact, few things are more beautiful and withstand the test of time better than stainless steel perforated sheet enclosures. Yet, some people are going with perforated aluminum or even carbon steel panels. So which is the best choice for you? Let’s examine these materials a little more closely to find out.
Carbon Steel
If you are only concerned with costs, you will probably want to look at punched carbon steel. This is the most cost effective option. Let’s check out more of steel’s benefits:
- Strong – few materials are stronger than tempered carbon steel.
- Durable – steel will last for a very long time when properly cared for.
- Resistant to insect attack
- Heavy – due to its weight, steel is a good choice for areas subject to strong winds or severe weather.
- Security – steel is highly resistant to impacts and if someone were to try to illegally enter an enclosure, it would not be easy.
Problems with Steel
Steel is subject to rust, so it must be painted or galvanized. Because it is not a soft metal, it is not easy to work with.
Stainless Steel
If you would like to use steel but are concerned about corrosion, stainless steel perforated sheet is the best choice. You receive all the good properties of steel blended with the corrosion resistance of chromium. However, stainless steel can be difficult to work, weld and machine. Yet, its biggest drawback is cost, as it one of the most expensive metals you can use. Yet, stainless steel is used in many applications where sanitation is a must and is considered to be the standard for most food processing and serving applications.
Aluminum
Punched aluminum panels make excellent enclosures. Aluminum is light in weight and easy to form and work with. Aluminum offers a natural resistance to rust and corrosion. This makes it the best choice for applications exposed to salt water environments. It is especially effective in areas close to the ocean because salt is in the air all the time, and this is highly corrosive to steel structures and components.
Aluminum Drawbacks
Because aluminum is softer and lighter than steel, it can easily be dented. This is an important consideration for some outdoor applications exposed to the weather. Aluminum is a cheaper option to stainless steel perforated sheet but not as inexpensive as carbon steel.
Before buying commercial enclosures, consider environment, cost, durability, corrosion and fabrication services. This will help you make the best decision for your business.
