Is it better to use copper or stainless steel for water tank heater?

Electric tubular heaters have been widely used in water heating, most of which are made of stainless steel, but there are also customers who use copper electric tubular heater. Is it better to use copper or stainless steel for water tank heater? Both copper and stainless steel can be good materials for water tank heaters, but there are some differences to consider.

Copper tubular heaters: 

Copper is a highly conductive metal that can quickly transfer heat from the heating element to the water. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to stainless steel. However, copper can corrode over time when exposed to certain types of water, such as highly acidic or alkaline water. This can lead to leaks and other problems.

1. Advantages: good heat transfer performance, easy to weld, suitable for non-corrosive liquids.

2. Disadvantages: not resistant to corrosion, high price, long-term use will produce patina polluting the water source.

Stainless steel tubular heater:

Stainless steel is a durable and corrosion-resistant material that can withstand exposure to different types of water. It is also easy to clean and maintain. However, stainless steel is less conductive than copper, which means it may take longer to heat the water.

1. Advantages: strong corrosion resistance, relatively mature welding process, low overall cost.

2. Disadvantages: thermal conductivity is slightly worse than copper because of the higher cost of copper material.

Stainless steel tubular heater:

Stainless steel is a durable and corrosion-resistant material that can withstand exposure to different types of water. It is also easy to clean and maintain. However, stainless steel is less conductive than copper, which means it may take longer to heat the water.

1.  Advantages: strong corrosion resistance, relatively mature welding process, low overall cost.

2.  Disadvantages: thermal conductivity is slightly worse than copper because of the higher cost of copper material.

Most of the materials on the market are stainless steel. Therefore, when welding the butt joint female ring, flange and other accessories, the stainless steel water tank and the same material belong to dissimilar metal welding. We must use brazing and silver welding rods. This type of welding rod is more expensive. The cost is increased, so compared to the copper electric heating tube, the stainless steel electric heating tube and the water tank are firmer and more convenient for welding. 

Ultimately, the choice between copper and stainless steel for a water tank heater will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a material that is highly conductive and affordable, copper may be the better choice. If you prioritize durability and resistance to corrosion, stainless steel may be the better choice.