Is Aluminum or Stainless Steel Better for Commercial Kitchens?

There is an ongoing industry debate on whether aluminum or stainless steel is better for restaurant kitchen and factory settings. Both metals have useful properties that can be advantageous when applied to the commercial food preparation industry, however, as a commercial kitchen owner, the choice is ultimately a personal one.

Continue reading to learn some beneficial attributes of stainless steel and aluminum so that you may decide which one best suits your commercial or industrial food preparation needs.

We Buy Restaurant Scrap Metal!  317-244-0700
We Buy Restaurant Scrap Metal! 317-244-0700

Aluminum

Aluminum is found on the periodic table with the symbol “Al” and atomic number 13. It has a silvery white finish, and mostly admired for its magnetic and ductile (good heat conductivity) properties. This makes aluminum a ferrous metal, meaning it contains iron. Compared to stainless steel, aluminum has higher oxidation and corrosion resistance properties, and is very light in weight.

All of these attributes makes it a well-suited match for kitchen back splashes, counter tops, food preparation surfaces, factory processing equipment, and more. On the other hand, one of the most discussed disadvantages of aluminum is its lack of malleability, which means it is difficult to form and typically cracks under pressure. For this reason, it is not usually recommended for countertops or factory settings.

Stainless Steel

Because stainless steel is made using a combination of nickel, magnesium, chromium copper and iron, it is a very strong and durable alloy that contains several properties that deliver a wide range of benefits. Although its chromium content makes it highly resistant to corrosion and oxidation, if the surface is scratched, it can develop rust.

The 304 series is the most common version of stainless steel used in the restaurant and food industry because it is highly resistant to corrosion. It is common to see components like kitchen sinks, food processing equipment, steam table pans, and more, made of 304 series stainless steel.

Comparing the Two:

🏭 As for strength and weight, steel is stronger and weighs more. Aluminum is only one-third the weight of stainless steel, but this is why it is top-choice for automotive and aerospace manufacturing.

🏭 Both metals are highly-resistant to corrosion, but since stainless steel is non-porous, it is more resistant than aluminum.

🏭 Both metals are also good thermal and electrical conductors, but aluminum retains higher thermal conductivity. This is why it is used to manufacture things like car radiators and air conditioner units.  

🏭 In terms of malleability, aluminum is better. It is much softer and easier to work with compared to stainless steel. In contrast, stainless steel is much easier to weld than aluminum.

🏭 In terms of market price, aluminum is a lot cheaper.

How to Get Paid for Scrap Aluminum and Steel Equipment in Indiana

If you would like to sell scrap metal restaurant equipment in Indiana, call Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 today! We pay the highest returns for all metals based on current market prices, including aluminum, steel, iron, ferrous, non-ferrous, and more. Whether you have broken down appliances or an old countertop system, our scrap metal buyers will pay you top-dollar! Request a free estimate, today.

Aluminum Metal Recycling is Easy and Profitable!

Aluminum Recycling 317-244-0700Aluminum Recycling 317-244-0700

Aluminum Recycling 317-244-0700

Aluminum, or aluminum alloy, is a very popular and widely used metal in America. Products and commodities such as eyeglasses, gutters, soda cans, bicycles, trailers, sports equipment, car engines, and even airplanes commonly retain aluminum and aluminum alloy components. Unfortunately, these items eventually lose their value and end up in an overflowing junkyard or landfill. Discarded aluminum metals and aluminum products are a large contributor to the amount of waste found in the environment all over the world. The bright side to this unfortunate statistic is that a solution exists; and the solution is aluminum metal recycling!

Aluminum Scrap Metal Recycling

Aluminum products and alloys are among the most simple and ordinary metals to recycle in the world. Because there are so many products and commodities manufactured and produced using aluminum alloys, there is much to be recycled in order to benefit the environment. Fortunately, aluminum recycling is simple and hassle-free. There are countless ways to recycle aluminum items and scrap metal in your town. The most common method of recycling aluminum in municipal areas is to contact or drop off your aluminum waste at a local metal recycling plant or company.

Metal recycling companies generally except all forms of metal waste products, including anything made from aluminum alloys. In fact, some metal recycling centers pay cash for scrap metal aluminum and other types of scrap metals. Also, it is common for metal recycling businesses to offer free pickup and drop-off services for local residents and their town or city center.

Another option for aluminum metal recycling would be to reuse scrap aluminum metal in a new and creative way that benefits your home or business. This do-it-yourself approach is common for individuals that wish to get involved and greener efforts, especially recycling. If you have a bunch of old soda cans, consider taking up our project featuring soda can labels; or reuse leftover aluminum sheet-metal for lining and insulation in your neighbors brand-new shed! There are several ways people can reuse metal products and waste instead of throwing them away in a junkyard. Consider these options and get started supporting your local ecosystem and environment! Start by recycling and reducing waste to protect our planet!

If you have any scrap aluminum metal, or other types of metal waste, contact your local metal recycling center for assistance. In most cases, all it takes is one phone call in your metal waste can be picked up and purchased all in one day! Be sure to choose an accomplished Indianapolis Metal Recycling Company with professional credentials, and provides convenient amenities for its customers and clientele. This includes pickup and drop-off services, cash for scrap metal, free quotes, 24 hour services, and of course, friendly and professional company representatives.

Recycle Aluminum Scrap Metal in Indianapolis

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Call Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 to recycle aluminum scrap metal in Indianapolis, Indiana today. We are highly trained and experienced metal recycling technicians that offer the highest returns for aluminum recycling and scrap metal in Indiana. We are proud to offer free pickup services if you have any scrap metal that you would like to recycle and get paid for all the same time! We accept old appliances, junk cars, tools, sheet-metal, equipment, cans, electronics, and much more. Contact Us at 317-244-0700 and speak with a professional and friendly metal recycling representative. Get free information regarding Indianapolis aluminum recycling services and amenities, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week!