Durability – Cold rolled steel exhibits a high degree of strength and rigidity. It is susceptible to corrosion but can be treated with coatings to enhance its resistance.
Price – Cold rolled steel is typically more expensive than aluminum.
Formability – Cold rolled steel is often preferred for its excellent pliability for project that require intricate shaping.
Durability – Stainless steel is renowned for its corrosion resistance, which is provided by the presence of chromium, making it ideal for use in environments where resistance to rust is a crucial factor. It’s a stronger material than aluminum and cold rolled steel.
Price – Stainless steel is the most expensive choice.
Formability – Stainless steel is less malleable compared to cold rolled steel, making it more challenging to bend and shape.
Durability and Strength – Aluminum stands out for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and natural corrosion resistance. This material is notably lightweight, making it a preferred choice for applications where weight is a concern.
Price – Aluminum is typically cheaper than stainless steel and cold rolled steel.
Formability – Aluminum’s formability is notably high. It can be easily bent and shaped into intricate forms without compromising its integrity.
For pieces where strength and corrosion resistance are paramount, stainless steel might justify its higher cost. But its brittleness and reduced formability also limits its use in intricate designs. Cold rolled steel provides a middle ground with robustness at a reasonable cost. Aluminum serves well when lightness and moderate strength are desired, especially for portable furniture.
Powder coating is a highly versatile finishing technique where a dry powder is electrostatically sprayed onto a surface, then cured under heat to form a hard, durable layer. This finish is ideal for both functional and decorative purposes. The process allows for a wide range of colors and textures, from high gloss to matte or textured finishes. Powder coating is often preferred for outdoor furniture and appliances for its robust protection against environmental elements.
Electroplating involves the deposition of a metal coating on an object by passing an electric current through an electrolyte solution containing the metal to be deposited. This method not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the object with a shiny, smooth finish but also improves corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and electrical conductivity. Electroplating is often utilized on metals such as steel, brass, and copper, making it suitable for decorative items that require a mirror-like or specific metallic appearance.
Anodizing is an electrolytic passivation process primarily used to increase the thickness of the natural oxide layer on the surface of metal parts, particularly aluminum. It creates a durable, corrosion-resistant finish that can also be dyed to offer an array of colors. Anodized aluminum is commonly found in frames, kitchen appliances, electronics, and outdoor gear due to its enhanced surface hardness and improved aesthetic qualities.
Brushing gives metals a distinctive look with fine lines that mimic the texture of brushed satin. This finishing process removes surface imperfections and produces a unidirectional satin finish, reducing the visual impact of scratching and wear. It is commonly applied to stainless steel, aluminum, and nickel for products such as kitchen appliances, kitchenware, architectural elements, and consumer electronics, which benefit from a sleek, modern appearance.
Polishing results in a smooth, reflective surface by removing the outer layer of the metal using chemical or physical abrasives. This finish maximizes the aesthetic qualities of metals, providing a mirror-like or high gloss appearance. Polishing is widely used on metals like stainless steel, aluminum, and brass, and is popular in the manufacture of automotive parts, decorative items, and kitchenware, where a visually striking appearance is desired.
Have you ever seen items that look like wool but are actually metal? This is achieved through water transfer printing, a technology that applies printed designs to three-dimensional surfaces. The process uses a water-soluble film with printed patterns. When the film dissolves in water, the ink remains on the object’s surface. The object is then submerged in the water, transferring the ink onto its surface. This technique allows complex and detailed graphics to be applied to metals.
Our collaborative approach extends to our network of trusted suppliers. Working closely with providers of high-quality wood, plastic, and textiles allows us to deliver hybrids solutions, creating an extraordinary amalgamation of materials and design.
Hardwood, softwood, plywood, particle boards and medium density boards are common materials that can be applied in different setting. When combined with metal, wood brings warmth and organic appeal to the design. Metal frames with wooden tops are popular in tables and desks. This hybrid approach leverage the strengths of both materials—metal’s durability and wood’s natural aesthetics.
Plastic in furniture design offers a wide range of colors, shapes, and properties. Common types include polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC) and acrylic. When combined with metal, plastic can introduce vibrant colors and novel textures to furniture. Metal frames paired with plastic seats and backs are frequently seen in modern chairs, offering a sleek, contemporary look.
Textiles play a crucial role in upholstery, where materials like cotton, leather, rattan and synthetic fabrics are commonly used. In hybrid designs, textiles are often used in conjunction with metal frames to create furniture that combines the cool, industrial feel of metal with the warmth and comfort of fabric. Examples include sofas and chairs with metal bases and textile cushions.
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