What is the difference in durability between an aluminum spirit level and a plastic torpedo level?

There are some significant differences in durability between aluminum spirit levels and plastic torpedo levels, which mainly stem from the material properties, manufacturing processes, and design structures used. Here is a detailed analysis of the durability differences between the two levels:
Material properties
Aluminum spirit levels:
Aluminum is a lightweight metal with high corrosion resistance, which allows aluminum spirit levels to maintain performance in a variety of environmental conditions.
Aluminum's high strength and hardness can withstand greater impact and pressure, which makes aluminum spirit levels less likely to be damaged when dropped or hit.
Aluminum's good thermal conductivity helps to dissipate heat quickly, which is an advantage for measuring tools that are used for a long time.
Plastic torpedo levels:
Plastic is a lightweight material, usually lighter than aluminum, which makes plastic torpedo levels easy to carry and handle.
Plastics have good chemical resistance, but are generally not as resistant to temperature and impact as metals, which may limit their use in temperatures or high-impact environments.
Plastics are not as thermally stable as metals and may deform over time or when exposed to high temperatures.
Manufacturing Process
Aluminum Levels:
Aluminum levels are often made using precision casting or machining processes that ensure a high level of precision and consistency.
Aluminum can be made with surface treatments such as anodizing to enhance its corrosion and wear resistance.
Plastic Torpedo Levels:
Plastic levels are often made using injection molding, a process that allows for the rapid production of complex shapes.
Plastic surfaces can be coated to improve their wear and chemical resistance, but the coating may not be as durable as the natural properties of metal.
Design Structure
Aluminum Levels:
Aluminum levels are often designed to be more robust and able to withstand heavier loads and more frequent use.
Aluminum products can be made more impact-resistant by reinforcing edges and corners.
Plastic Torpedo Levels:
Plastic levels may be designed to be lightweight and cost-effective, but may compromise on structural strength.
Plastic products may have some elastic design to absorb shock, but this may also lose elasticity over time.
Application Scenarios
Aluminum Level:
Suitable for use in areas requiring high durability and precision, such as industry, construction, and heavy machinery.
Plastic Torpedo Level:
More suitable for situations where lightness, cost-effectiveness, and low frequency of use are required, such as home decoration or small engineering projects.
Maintenance and Care
Aluminum Level:
Relatively simple to maintain, requiring only regular cleaning and inspection for damage.
Plastic Torpedo Level:
Need to avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures to prevent deformation or damage.
Aluminum and plastic torpedo levels each have their own advantages and limitations. Aluminum levels perform better in durability, temperature resistance, and impact resistance, and are suitable for use in more demanding environments. Plastic torpedo levels, on the other hand, have advantages in lightness and cost-effectiveness, and are suitable for use in situations where durability is not required. Users should decide the suitable type based on their specific needs and budget when choosing.