I. Introduction
Iron and zinc alloy are both materials that can be used to make door handles. The main difference between them is that Iron is a naturally occurring metal, while zinc alloy is a synthetic material that combines zinc with other elements. Iron is typically more durable and heavy than zinc alloy but is also more prone to rust and corrosion.
Zinc alloy is more resistant to corrosion and rust, but it may not be as strong or durable as Iron. While both iron and zinc alloy door handles have their benefits and drawbacks, it is essential to consider factors such as durability, corrosion resistance, design, purchasing costs, and the climate of the sales area when making a decision.
II. Advantages of iron door handles
· Low production cost
Iron is inexpensive, and the production cost is relatively low compared to other metals and alloys. This makes iron door handles a cost-effective choice for both manufacturers and consumers.
· Weighty
Iron door handles have a significant weight to them, which can give them a sense of solidity and quality. This can be advantageous for high-traffic areas where handles may be subject to heavy use, as the weight can give them added durability.
· Durability and strength of Iron
Iron is a solid and durable metal, making it well-suited for use in door handles. Iron door handles can withstand heavy use and are less likely to break or wear out than other materials. Additionally, they are resistant to bending and warping and can be made to withstand high pressure and force. Iron door handles are suitable for use in coastal areas or deserts and dry climate areas (such as Western America, the Middle East, and Africa) as they are particularly prone to rust and corrosion in those environments. You can refer to the colored places in the picture below. Due to geographical factors and climatic conditions, these places have an arid climate.
· Easily customizable
Iron is a very malleable and ductile metal that can be easily shaped, bent, and molded into various designs. Iron door handles can be created in multiple shapes, sizes, and styles and can be adapted to fit any aesthetic or functional requirement. This allows manufacturers and designers to create unique and customized door handles tailored to their customers’ needs.
III. Disadvantages of iron door handles
· Prone to rust and corrosion
Iron is a reactive metal easily affected by moisture and oxygen, which can cause it to rust and corrode over time. This can be a significant disadvantage for iron door handles, especially in humid or coastal areas where the metal is exposed to high levels of moisture and salt. Humidity levels in some cities like India, Patna, and Maldives are over 96% at some point of the day, which makes it highly likely for the iron door handles to rust. Iron door handles are also unsuitable for wet or high-traffic areas. In the United States, many coastal cities in Florida and European coastal states have high humidity levels, and using iron door handles may not be practical there.
· Requires regular maintenance to prevent rust
Iron door handles must be cleaned and maintained regularly to prevent rust and corrosion. This includes regular cleaning and polishing, as well as the application of protective coatings to prevent rust from forming. For some people, this level of maintenance may not be practical, so iron door handles may not be suitable for use in specific environments or for certain people.
IV. Advantages of zinc alloy door handles
· Resistant to corrosion and rust
Zinc alloy is a synthetic material that combines zinc with other elements, making it more corrosion-resistant and rust-resistant than Iron. This makes it ideal for door handles where moisture and salt are present or in coastal or humid environments.
· High density, Weighty
Holding zinc alloy door handles in their hands feeling is an essential factor for the end consumers to consider when making a purchase. The feel and quality of the handle can significantly affect the overall perception and value of the product. Zinc alloy has enough unit density.
Many manufacturers take great care to create door handles that feel solid in hand. This can be achieved by using high-quality zinc alloy and paying attention to the design and weight of the handle.
Due to the attention to detail and high-quality materials, these door handles are often more expensive than others. They are not considered cheap products but worthwhile investments for residential and commercial spaces. High-quality door handles are often used in prestigious buildings, luxury homes, and high-end commercial establishments where the door handles will be frequently used.
· Perfect electroplating process
The perfect electroplating process makes the zinc alloy door handle free of maintenance and will not oxidize or rust for many years. Door handles made from zinc alloy can come in various styles and finishes, from sleek and modern to classic and traditional. This variety of designs allows for greater flexibility when matching door handles with the decor and style of a particular space.
· Cost-effective
Zinc alloy is less expensive than brass metals and alloys; This makes it an attractive option for people looking for an affordable yet durable and resistant to the rust door handle.
V. Disadvantages of zinc alloy door handles
· Higher price
The main disadvantage of zinc alloy door handles is that they can be several times more expensive than iron ones. This is because zinc alloy is a synthetic material that is more expensive than Iron. Additionally, the manufacturing process and design of zinc alloy door handles can be more labor-intensive and time-consuming, contributing to the higher price.
VI. Conclusion
In conclusion, iron and zinc alloy door handles have advantages and disadvantages. Iron door handles are suitable for dry climate areas, and their low production cost makes them a cost-effective option. They offer durability and strength and can be easily customized to match the decor of a space. However, iron door handles are prone to rust and corrosion and require regular maintenance to prevent rust.
On the other hand, zinc alloy door handles are suitable for use in any climate conditions. They are an alternative to brass, the price is lower than brass, and they offer a range of benefits such as resistance to corrosion and rust. They are ideal for use in coastal or humid environments where iron door handles may not be suitable. However, zinc alloy door handles may be more expensive than iron ones.
When choosing between iron and zinc alloy door handles, it is essential to consider factors such as the environment in which they will be used, durability, corrosion resistance, and design. Cost should also be considered another element in making an informed decision.
Iron door handles are generally suitable for dry climate areas with low moisture levels, and zinc alloy door handles are ideal for any climate condition, especially those with high moisture or salt level. It’s important to note that the zinc alloy’s unit density, sufficient weight, corrosion resistance, and oxidation resistance make it a suitable option for door handles.