Aluminum and steel are primarily the popular choices for truck bodies. You want a quality, durable, and economical choice for whichever tasks your truck will perform. Both materials are good for different sectors and budgets. So, you will have to weigh various factors to settle on one that best suits your needs.
The two metals have unique pros and cons, and it may not be easy to choose one over the other. This post will analyze important factors to consider to make a well-informed truck body purchase.
Weight and Malleability
Steel is
heavier
than aluminum. Your trucks must adhere to weight restrictions, so a heavier body means you will have to transport lighter goods to meet the restrictions. Further, less weight exerts less strain on the tires and fuel system. Thus you extend your truck's life expectancy when you fit a lighter body.
Aluminum is more elastic and malleable (you can deform it under pressure) than steel. As such, you can bend or curve into desirable shapes.
Corrosion
Rust is a truck's enemy since it can form holes into the body. What's more, it spreads if you don't contain it. Steel manufacturers coat its surface to discourage the formation of rust. Unfortunately, bumps and scratches can breach the protective coat and expose the concealed metal. Corrosion undermines the value of used steel and reduces its resale value.
On the other hand, aluminum can oxidize to form aluminum oxide, a protective layer. It follows from this that aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant and doesn't need any treatment, for that matter.
Cost
The price of the two metals fluctuates based on factors such as:
- Availability of bauxite ore
- Change in fuel prices
- Market demand and supply
All in all, the initial cost of aluminum is
higher
than steel. Nonetheless, aluminum is low maintenance and can save you high inspection costs in the long run. Also, you get increased load capacity and enhanced fuel conservation with aluminum bodies. That way, you save on maintenance costs.
Workload Capacity
Steel is stronger than aluminum hence accommodating a heavier weight. However, the maximum weight of the truck and goods should adhere to standard weight regulations. Now that steel is heavy, a steel-made body can support but isn't allowed by the law to overload.
Nevertheless, manufacturers can use thicker aluminum sheets to make your truck body. This provision results in an aluminum body thicker and lighter than steel. That said, you will carry more without breaking
road weight requirements.
Durability and Strength
Durability is a major consideration when you purchase truck bodies that must withstand years of heavy use. Steel is stronger, resilient, harder, and
2.5 times denser than aluminum. The strength of steel results from the amount of carbon it has. The higher the amount, the stronger the metal. If you plan to use the truck for heavy-duty jobs, steel is the material for you.
Fuel Efficiency and Eco-Friendliness
Aluminum is lighter hence exerts less weight on the tires. As a result, a gallon of fuel will last for longer mileage with an aluminum body. Additionally, aluminum production is environmentally friendly because it doesn't deploy harmful materials. The melt-up process is also cleaner and wastes less. Nevertheless, you can recycle both aluminum and steel to ensure your old truck bodies don't end up in landfills.
Maintenance and Safety
Aluminum's resistance to rust and harsh weather conditions makes it easier to maintain compared to steel. In terms of safety, an aluminum body provides a more secure ride. The reduced weight of aluminum lowers the center of gravity and makes it easier for the driver to accelerate and brake. Additionally, increased malleability makes it easier to reinforce precarious connection points.
Conclusion
Based on your needs and budgets, you can select either metal. Whether you settle for steel or aluminum, we have you covered. We design custom truck bodies at
Diamond Truck Body MFG Inc. Contact us today for quality truck parts and reliable services.
