The tank is an important part of the washing machine. The duration of operation of the SMA depends on the quality of its manufacture, because it constantly experiences loads, as well as exposure to high temperatures. Therefore, it is important to choose the right tank material for the washing machine. Our article will help you expand your knowledge about the types of tank materials, understand how they differ, and also make the right choice when buying.
Be careful! Do not confuse a drum with a tank. There is laundry in the drum during washing.
Types of materials
Below are the main types of materials from which tanks for washing machines are made.
enamelled metal
In the manufacture of ordinary metal coated with enamel. It protects the metal from damage and corrosion.
Advantages:
- The material is durable and reliable, withstands shocks and loads.
- Not afraid of temperature changes.
Disadvantages:
- During washing, foreign objects may enter, which as a result damages the enamel. Therefore, in the future, the metal corrodes and begins to pass water.
- A CMA with a metal tank is much heavier than with a tank made of other materials.
- Outdated manufacturing technology. Therefore, in the event of a breakdown, you are unlikely to be able to find a suitable analogue for replacement.
Which tank (drum) is better for a washing machine? Some users find that it locks better in top-loading machines than front-loading machines. This opinion is erroneous, since the mount in both types is approximately the same.
Stainless steel
A long lasting classic. Washing machines with a stainless tank serve faithfully for many years.
Advantages:
- High strength, excellent tolerance to temperature extremes and contact with water.
Disadvantages:
- Great weight.
- High noise level (metal dampens vibration poorly).
- The energy consumption is higher than other materials. This is because metal does not retain heat well.
- High price.
A stainless steel tank a priori is not cheap. Subject to manufacturing technology (welding and assembly), it will last for decades. Therefore, the low cost of SMA in this case should alert you.
Plastic (polymer)
Each manufacturer is trying to stand out in the market. Therefore, all new types of polymers with different names are being developed. If you think it’s better – silitek or plastic, we will say that their main characteristics are similar, but there are slight differences.
- Polyplex (Poliplex) in the washing machine. The polymer is not afraid of exposure to high temperatures, moisture, rust. Composite material perfectly absorbs noise, providing almost silent operation of the washer. Inexpensive polyplex has good thermal conductivity, which allows you to spend less electricity. But the plastic tank (drum) in the washing machine is considered quite fragile.
- Carboran (Carboran). Although it refers to polymers, its characteristics correspond to stainless steel. Strength, environmental friendliness, resistance to high temperatures, corrosion. Unlike plastic, polymer carboran is not afraid of mechanical damage.
There are also such types of polymers in the washing machine as Silitek and Karbotek. Their qualities are similar to the previous species. Summarize.
Advantages plastic tanks made of polymers:
- Ease.
- Excellent sound and noise isolation. Therefore, a washing machine with a tank made of polymers (plastic) works several times quieter than with a metal one.
- High thermal insulation saves energy.
- Resistant to temperatures, detergents, bleaches.
- Long service life. With proper care, it will last up to 30 years.
Disadvantages:
- Brittleness. Chance of cracks and splits. During transportation and ingress of objects during washing, fragile plastic is often damaged and bursts.
No less significant when buying is the cost of the machine and the shape of the drum. So, there are washing machines with a drop-shaped drum. Watch the video and decide which choice to make:
Which material of the washing machine tank is better to choose is up to you. We hope we have helped to understand the characteristics and differences of materials.