Originally written by mtngrl456 on 2010-01-29 7:18 PM
I also don't know about corrosion w/ aluminum in a salt state. Aluminum is a very durable material in the rust belt areas, much more so than steel trailers, with less maintenance. Compare 15 year old aluminum and steel trailers side by side that have had minimal maintenance. The aluminum will look like new when it is cleaned of oxidation, which is nothing more than an acid wash.
I've heard both ways as far as strength (like in a collision or when kicked) so I don't know which is the better way to go on that, either.Does anyone have any info on durability/strength of steel vs aluminum?
Tons of aluminum are used every day, in the fabrication of every type of conveyance, for every type of transportation. It is a proven commodity, with light weights and durability. Any negative publicity you hear about it, is generated by the competing steel trailer manufacturers.
What about steel frame/aluminum skin trailers? I've heard that since the two materials have different properties, there can be stress and corrosion problems where they are joined, true or rumor?
If steel and aluminum touch, a galvanic reaction will occur and the aluminum will become damaged. Recently, there has been the procreation of new adhesives, tapes and coatings that are being used in bi-metal trailer construction. Only time will show how well the manufacturer uses them.
BOL Gard