Comparisons · Aluminium and other materials
Aluminium vs PVC: which is better?
Weight, strength, stiffness, corrosion and recycling of aluminium and PVC, side by side.
In a nutshell
- PVC weighs less than aluminium: 1.40 against 2.70 g/cm³.
- Aluminium is stronger: 240 against 50 MPa tensile strength.
- Aluminium is 23 times stiffer (modulus of 69 against 3 GPa).
- Neither of them corrodes, but PVC degrades in sunlight unless it has UV additives.
| Property | Aluminium 6063-T6 | Rigid PVC |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 2.70 g/cm³ | 1.40 g/cm³ |
| Tensile strength | 240 MPa | 50 MPa |
| Modulus of elasticity (stiffness) | 69 GPa | 3 GPa |
| Thermal conductivity | 200 W/m·K | 0.16 W/m·K |
| Thermal expansion | 23.4 µm/m·°C | 70.0 µm/m·°C |
| Melting point | 615–655 °C | Softens at ≈ 80 °C |
| Corrosion | Very good: it forms a protective oxide layer; with anodising or paint, excellent. | It does not corrode; sunlight degrades it unless it has UV additives. |
| Machinability | Good | Good |
| Recycling | It can be recycled endlessly using about 5% of the energy needed to produce it. | Recyclable, with limitations. |
Typical values at room temperature: Aluminium 6063-T6 and Rigid PVC. Stiffness compares the modulus of elasticity.
- When aluminium is the better choiceWhen weight, corrosion or finish matter: light structures, windows and doors, transport, visible parts and anything that moves or is assembled by hand.
- When PVC is the better choiceWhen its insulation or its cost matter more than weight and strength.
Still not sure which to use?
Tell us what you are going to make and we will recommend the right alloy, temper and finish.
The message is put together with what you are looking at, with no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does aluminium weigh compared with PVC?
PVC weighs less than aluminium: 1.40 against 2.70 g/cm³.
Which is stronger, aluminium or PVC?
Aluminium is stronger: 240 against 50 MPa tensile strength. Aluminium is 23 times stiffer (modulus of 69 against 3 GPa).