Standard structural steels are efficient at transferring heat compared to high-alloy versions.
To put steel's performance into perspective, here is how it stacks up against other popular metals: Thermal Conductivity ( Relative Performance Highest (The Gold Standard) Pure Copper Excellent (Electrical/Heat Sinks) Pure Aluminum Good (Lightweight Heat Sinks) Brass Cast Iron Comparable to Carbon Steel Carbon Steel Fair Stainless Steel Low Key Takeaway for Your Project Thermal Conductivity Of Metals List Steel
The thermal conductivity of steel varies significantly depending on its composition, but a standard value for is approximately . Thermal Conductivity Of Metals List Steel
Increased carbon content slightly interferes with the metal's ability to conduct heat. Thermal Conductivity Of Metals List Steel
Similar to carbon steel, though the zinc coating itself has a conductivity of about Comparison with Other Common Metals