Selecting the right spray nozzle for your application is not always a simple task. From nozzle size and type to material, a dozen variations exist, purposefully designed for distinct functions.
In the following content, we provide a starting point for selecting the best spray nozzle for your application. Specifically, we compare steel and plastic nozzles, two of the most common spray nozzle materials. Let’s dive in!
Before diving into steel vs plastic nozzles, we need to define a few important factors to consider when selecting nozzle material: temperature, corrosion, abrasion, and cost.
The environment within which your nozzle will be operating will help narrow down your options. First, consider temperature. Every material will begin to soften or melt at specific temperatures. However, some are better suited to withstand intensive temperatures, like extreme heat.
If your spray nozzle will be operating in an environment with intense temperatures, this will be extremely important to keep in mind.
Over time, corrosion is common. For example, the type of media sprayed can quicken the corrosion process. However, certain nozzle materials are corrosion-resistant, ideal for highly-corrosive environments.
Abrasion-resistance is especially important when chemicals like acids, alcohol, or oxides are being sprayed. In these environments, your nozzle material must be strong enough to withstand the abrasive effects of powerful chemicals, and certain materials are better suited for these circumstances.
Cost almost always plays an initial role in the selection of spray nozzles. However, choosing the most inexpensive option is usually not cost-effective in the long run. For example, materials that are corrosion resistant often cost more, but they won’t need to be replaced as often – ultimately saving time and money.
First, we will take a look at steel nozzles as they fit into each of the four categories explored above.
Next, we will examine plastic nozzles as they fit into the aforementioned categories.
Stainless steel and plastic are not the only nozzle materials available. A plethora of other metals and exotic materials can be used to craft spray nozzles, each suited for a unique application.
Although this article does not go in-depth on each available spray nozzle material, we will briefly touch on brass and silicon carbide, two extremely common materials.
Like steel, brass is suitable for high temperatures. However, it is not often chosen for corrosive or abrasive chemicals.
Silicon carbide is also suitable for high temperatures. Additionally, silicon carbide is often used to spray abrasive chemicals and can provide cost savings.
We provide extensive research on extending the life of your spray nozzles. Proper nozzle use can prevent significant quality problems, eliminate profit loss, and extend the life of your nozzle before performing regular nozzle maintenance. Our first guideline for extending nozzle life promotes choosing the right nozzle material!
If your application regularly utilizes corrosive chemicals and your nozzles are steel, consider switching to plastic. Alternatively, if your application requires abrasive chemicals and you are utilizing plastic, consider stainless steel. Choosing the best nozzle for your specific application will extend the nozzle's life and allow the nozzle to perform as it was intended.
At Lechler, we offer an extensive variety of nozzle materials, from stainless steel and plastic to brass and a variety of exotic materials. Whatever the application, we have the nozzle – the Lechler portfolio is diversity at its best.
If you are interested in learning about the variety of Lechler’s custom engineered spray solutions, we would love to guide you through our portfolio. You can get in touch with a member of our team at (800) 777-2926 or complete our online contact form. A spray nozzle specialist will be in touch with you shortly.