Stainless Steel vs Aluminum for Salt Water and Marine enviornments

[yahoo123]

How does stainless steel compare with aluminum in constantly suberged in seawater applications?

And how does SS compare with Aluminum for above ground marine environments?

Thanks.

 

[CoryPad]

I assume you are asking how their corrosion resistance compares?

What alloys? In what condition (heat treated, coated)? What is the criterion for failure?

With no information provided by you, I would say that in general, stainless steel is better for both.

Regards,

Cory

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[metengr]

yahoo123;
You might find the information below interesting reading regarding the use of Aluminium alloys in marine environments;

http://www.key-to-metals.com/Article99.htm

Similarly, you can do the same for stainless steel and make your own comparison. I get a little nervous when certain grades of austenitic stainless are even close to a coastal environment because of the potential for pitting and SCC.