Modern
flag poles are composed primarily of either stainless steel or aluminium due to
their strength and suitability for outdoor use. So which is better? PILA
investigates the properties of both to find out.
Corrosion
It
is well-known that steel is a hardy material for construction, however if left
exposed to the elements it corrodes. Stainless steel overcomes this obstacle
for external structures such as flag poles. In this respect it is comparable
with aluminium as a low-maintenance, non-corrosive substance.
Weight
Stainless
steel is significantly heavier than aluminium and is approximately 3 times
denser. The disadvantage here is that it makes installation of your flag pole
much harder and more dangerous. While an aluminium flag pole can be installed
quickly and easily as a DIY project with one or 2 people, a stainless steel
flag pole may require a crane to manage the weight. And once installed there is
also the risk of a heavy stainless steel structure with a flag attached
responding to the wind.
Cost
Aluminium
is more expensive than steel, but stainless steel is a lot more
expensive than aluminium - approximately 1.5 times more! Aluminium wins
hands-down in this respect - it is less expensive to produce, handle and ship. Stainless
steel flag poles sold in Australia are all imported from offshore as the cost
to manufacture a stainless steel flag pole in Australia is far too high.
Durability
High
quality versions of both materials are long-lasting and durable in the extreme
conditions of Australia. Unfortunately many stainless steel flag pole
manufacturers import low-grade steel to compete on cost. While 316 grade
stainless steel would offer a suitable quality, the 304 grade commonly used
does not perform well when exposed to the elements, staining, pitting and
tarnishing among other failures.
Verdict
Stainless
steel is an unnecessarily expensive material for producing flag poles when
aluminium is equally low-maintenance and rustproof, equally durable, and is
lighter and easier to handle. The best all round material for a flag pole is
aluminium, in particular marine grade 6063 T6 alloy as used by PILA flag poles.
Contact PILA on 13 7452 or email info@pilaflagpoles.com.au
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