Top Metals Used in Heavy Machinery Equipment

When having parts manufactured for heavy machinery and equipment, it’s critical to choose the right material. Making the right choice depends on your budget, the desired application, the required durability, and a few other factors.

Here’s what you need to know about the five most common materials used for heavy equipment and machine parts.

Carbon Alloys

Carbon alloys are favorable because they are stable even in the most extreme temperatures and resist corrosion and wear. Choose an alloy with a carbon content of less than five percent by weight for a material that has the strength of steel, but can still be welded and formed into the desired shape.

Aluminum

If you need a part that won’t have to withstand extreme conditions, consider aluminum as a budget-friendly option. This lightweight material is also useful if your machine has weight restrictions. Despite its low density, aluminum resists corrosion. It also conducts heat and electricity effectively. Aluminum is widely available and more affordable than many other metals in this category.

Brass

If your machine parts are externally visible, you may want to choose the appealing color of brass. It’s not just about looks – brass is reliable and possesses corrosion-resistant properties. Brass also repels rust, which makes it an excellent choice for high-humidity environments and machines that must operate in or near water. Although brass can be more expensive than other metals on this list, it’s also generally more comfortable to work with.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel has unmatched strength and hardness, which makes it an excellent choice for outdoor machines in harsh environmental conditions. Stainless steel is a favorite because it resists heat and corrosion. Its rigidity makes it slightly more difficult to mold and work with, but is a popular choice for most construction projects.

Plastic

If you don’t need heat resistance, you may want to consider plastic for your heavy-duty equipment needs. Even though this material has a low melting temperature, it is lightweight and versatile, making it the perfect material for most types of machine parts and equipment. It is lower in strength than its metal counterparts, so if you depend on durability, plastic may not be the best choice.

There are pros and cons to all types of metal, and choosing the right one for your heavy machinery equipment is entirely up to you. Once you’ve decided on your metal, it’s important to find a reputable metal service center to obtain your supplies. Avion Alloys provides quality materials and maximum efficiency for all of your projects. For more information on our products and services, contact us at (800) 408-2329 for a free quote.