How well does aluminum work for blocks
 

How well do you think aluminum will work for rotor blocks. I can get aluminum for 5x cheaper then copper. So Im wondering if I should try aluminum.

aluminum works alright, itll definately be easier to make the block but youll loose around 5c from a copper block.

Jon

Completely correct aluminum is a lot cheaper but you will give up a little performance, if this is not an issue to you then there is no reason not to use it.

I would think that it would be great for prototyping.

skimping on aluminum for the block seems like a good idea, but you also need to use an aluminum radiator in reality(another performance hit). Dont say "i'll bong this system", the tap water should kill the aluminum. Aluminum simply isnt a tough material. It has wonderful corrosion resistance in enviroments like the atmosphere, in a inert gas it should last nearly forever. In water it will oxidize quickly, not only destroying it but causing an even higher performance loss, since aluminum oxide is a bad thermal conductor.

Or just use generous amounts of antifreeze.

OR... you could anodize it at home!

Its risky and could kill you, but look at the bright side. Block could last longer!

anodizing = similiar to alu oxide. I have anodized at home, not like what you get from the factory, leave it in too long and it'll disappear also.

ill be making a rotor block on alu soon, as soon as i have it i will post some numbers :)

im planning on selling them here in argentina. i will start making some really cheap WC kits, 100 dollars complete with pump, rad, hoses, fan, etc.

hmmmmm :D Roylties.... YUMMY...... I can do with a brand new CNC too Ya know :D

OK OK so I din't have a place to put it...yet.... I'm working on that...


[jk]