It can be difficult to find the right spraynozzle for you application. There are a multitude of options for spray nozzles, all designed to serve different purposes.
Below is a guideline to help you choose the best spraynozzle for the job. This article compares steel and plastic spraynozzles, the two most common materials. Let’s start!
What factors should I consider when choosing a tank cleaning nozzle material?
Before we discuss steel nozzles vs. nozzles made of plastic, there are a few things you need to know: temperature, corrosion and abrasion.
1. Temperature
This will allow you to narrow down your options. The temperature is an important consideration. Temperature is the most important factor. Every material will start to melt or soften at certain temperatures. Some materials, however, are better suited to endure extreme temperatures, such as high heat.
Keep in mind that spray nozzles may be exposed to extreme temperatures.
2. Corrosion
Over time, corrosion can be quite common. A spray media can speed up the corrosion process. However, some nozzle materials can withstand corrosion, which is ideal for high-corrosive environments.
3. Abrasion
Chemicals like alcohol, acids, and other oxides require abrasion resistance. You must ensure that your nozzle material can withstand the abrasive effects caused by powerful chemicals. There are some materials that are better suited for these conditions.
4. Cost
In the selection process of spray nozzles, cost is almost always an important factor. But choosing the cheapest option will not always be cost-effective. Corrosive resistant materials, for example, are often more expensive but don’t need as many replacements. This ultimately saves money and time.
Steel vs. Plastic Nozzles
Steel Spray Nozzles
First, let’s take a look at the steel nozzles that fit into each one of the categories.
Temperature: These nozzles made of stainless steel are great for hot environments. Steel nozzles can withstand temperatures up to 285 degrees, which is common among hard materials. A stainless-steel nozzle is the best solution if your environment has extreme heat.
Corrosion: However, stainless-steel nozzles aren’t known for being highly resistant to corrosion. While they are durable, they may not last as long as you need.
Abrasion. Stainless steel by itself is not very resistant to abrasion. Steel is a great choice for abrasive purposes once it has been hardened.
Cost: For the right environment, stainless-steel nozzles may be cost-effective.
Plastic Spray Nozzles
Next, we will look at plasticnozzles in relation to the categories.
Temperature: As we would expect, plastic canisters are not suitable for extreme hot environments. Plastic can melt and deform at extreme temperatures. This is why stainless steel is better.
Corrosion Resistance: Plastic nozzles can withstand corrosion. This is perhaps the most appealing characteristic of plastic nozzles. It is more corrosion-resistant than most metals. A plastic nozzle can be a good choice for a very corrosive environment.
Abrasion – Plastic nozzles should not be used for extreme abrasion.
Cost: In corrosive environments, plastic nozzles offer a cost-effective alternative. They don’t offer significant savings in many other circumstances such as extreme heat or abrasion.
What about other nozzle materials?
Plastic and stainless steel are not the only options when it comes to nozzle materials. There are many other metals available and exotic materials that can be used to make spray nozzles. Each one can be used for a different application.
Although we won’t be covering every available spray nozzle, this article will briefly address brass and silicon caride, two of the most common materials.
What about brass?
Brass is like steel. It can withstand high temperatures. It is not commonly used for corrosive, abrasive chemicals.
What about silicon caride?
Silicon carbide also works well at high temperatures. Silicon carbide can be used to spray abrasive compounds, and this can help you save money.
How can I extend my nozzle’s life?
We do extensive research to help you extend the life span of your spray nozzles. Proper use of nozzles can help to prevent serious quality problems and minimize profit loss. To extend the life of your nozzle, our first recommendation is to choose the right nozzle material.
Plastic is an option if your application uses corrosive substances and your nozzles have steel. You could also use stainless steel for applications that require abrasive substances. The best nozzle is the one that suits your application. This will increase the nozzle’s lifespan and enable it to perform as intended.
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