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Fast decision table
| Attribute | 304 SS | 316L SS | Aluminum (Al) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrosion resistance | ★★★ (general) | ★★★★ (chlorides/chemicals) | ★★ (needs coating) |
| Solvent tolerance | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★ (paint/oxide sensitive) |
| Weight / handling | ★★ (heavier) | ★★ (heavier) | ★★★★ (light) |
| Heat response (bake, cooldown) | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
| Weldability & finish | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ |
| Cost | $$ | $$$ | $$ (plus coating) |
| Typical fit | General R&D | Battery, corrosive/halide work | Education, prototyping, mobility needs |
Plain advice: If you see chlorides/acidic vapors/electrolytes, pick 316L. If you move the box often or need quick thermal cycles, Al is viable with a robust coating plan. Otherwise, 304 covers most labs.
Window choices (pick by risk)
| Window | Strength | Watch-outs | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic (PMMA) | Clear, low cost | Scratches; crazing with some solvents | General R&D, training |
| Polycarbonate (PC) | Impact-tough | Scratches; coat for optical clarity | Handling heavy tools, EDU |
| Laminated safety glass | Scratch-hard, solvent-resistant | Heavier, pricier | Solvent-rich labs, long life |
Finish & coating (matters more than you think)
- 304/316L: target RA ≤ 0.8–1.2 μm internal finish to reduce residue; passivation improves chloride tolerance.
- Aluminum: specify hard-anodize (Type III) or chem film + 2-part epoxy/polyurethane; keep ketones/aromatics off the paint film where possible.
Solvent reality check
- Heavy ketones/aromatics → add cold/charcoal traps and prefer 316L + glass window.
- Routine alcohols (IPA/EtOH) → 304/316L fine; avoid aggressive wiping on acrylic/PC (use approved cleaners, microfiber).
Pressure & sealing
- All three materials support +3–8 mbar steady operation.
- Use Viton/EPDM O-rings matched to solvents and bake temps; for aggressive chemistry, consider FKM/FFKM where needed.
Quick spec templates (copy/paste)
Corrosive/halide work (battery/electrolytes):
- Chamber: 316L, RA ≤1.0 μm, passivated
- Window: laminated safety glass
- Traps: cold + charcoal
- Notes: solvent-safe cleaners; data-driven regeneration
General R&D / teaching:
- Chamber: 304, RA ≤1.2 μm
- Window: acrylic (or PC if impact risk)
- Traps: optional; standard solvent discipline
Mobile/thermal cycling lab:
- Chamber: Al + hard-anodize/epoxy
- Window: PC (hard-coat)
- Notes: protect coatings; verify cleaner compatibility
