What is a common type of metal used in high-temperature applications?

In high-temperature applications, aluminum is often favored due to its excellent heat resistance and lightweight properties. While it does have a lower melting point compared to metals like steel and iron, certain grades of aluminum can perform well under elevated temperatures without losing their structural integrity.

Aluminum’s ability to dissipate heat efficiently makes it suitable for applications such as heat exchangers, where managing high temperatures is vital. This metal also has a good resistance to oxidation at elevated temperatures, which is a critical factor in maintaining performance in environments where temperatures can vary dramatically.

In contrast, although steel is sturdy and can endure high temperatures, its heavier weight can be a disadvantage in certain applications. Copper is a great conductor of heat and electricity but is not usually used in high-temperature structural applications due to its lower melting point. Iron can handle high heat but is more prone to corrosion and rust when exposed to moisture unless properly treated or alloyed. Therefore, aluminum emerges as a preferred choice in specific high-temperature contexts within the HVAC field.