Aluzinc vs stainless steel

What is Aluzinc?

Aluzinc is a steel substrate coated with a mixture of 55% aluminum, 43.5% zinc, and 1.5% silicon. This trademarked metallic coating offers:

• Excellent corrosion resistance, especially in dry and moderately humid environments
• Reflectivity that reduces heat buildup in enclosures
• “Self-healing” properties at cut edges, offering long-term protection
• A cost-effective alternative to stainless steel

What is stainless steel?

Stainless steel is an alloy primarily made from iron, chromium, and nickel. It is known for:

• Superior corrosion resistance, especially in coastal or industrial environments
• High mechanical strength and resistance to impact or vandalism
• A sleek, professional appearance
• Higher cost, but also higher long-term durability
• Easier to sterilize for environments with higher hygiene requirements

Material selection in Vikinor products

At Vikinor, we use both powder-coated Aluzinc and stainless steel depending on customer needs and environmental exposure:

Aluzinc is ideal for rural telecom base stations, remote battery cabinets, and off-grid power enclosures where lightweight and cost-efficiency matter. Thanks to the powder coating, we’re also able to customize the color of the products, which is not just for aesthetics, but also for practical reasons such as keeping a well-organized space.

Stainless steel is used in projects that demand maximum protection, such as coastal deployments, heavy-duty industrial applications, and high-spec energy systems. If you go with the polished steel, you get a smooth, non-porous surface that makes it easier to sanitize for sterile environments.

Which material should you choose?

When designing outdoor electrical enclosures, choosing the right material is essential for durability, corrosion resistance, and long-term performance. Both Aluzinc-coated steel and stainless steel are widely used across industries such as telecom, energy infrastructure, and industrial automation, but they have different strengths and ideal use cases.

Choose Aluzinc if you need:

• Cost-effective protection in moderate outdoor environments
• Lightweight construction
• Strong thermal performance (reflectivity)

Choose stainless steel if you need:

• Extreme corrosion resistance (e.g., coastal or chemical exposure)
• Long-term structural strength
• A polished, professional finish