Washing machine tank material: plastic, stainless steel, etc.

Metal tank and drumThe tank is one of the main parts of the machine. It is not uncommon that malfunctions of this type of household appliances are, one way or another, related to this part. It happens that a foreign object gets into the tank and creates unpleasant loud sounds when the drum rotates.

It happens that this item jams the drum. Cracks also sometimes appear in the tank. There are some other breakdowns associated with this part of the washing machine.

The method of fixing the tank in different models of cars is similar. In order to create a more or less movable mount, springs and shock absorbers are used. And in order to dampen excessive vibration, counterweights are used. Counterweights are concrete blocks that are quite lightweight.

Modern buyers can be quite knowledgeable about washing machines. But, nevertheless, they still believe rumors that come from out of nowhere.

For example, there is an opinion among people that in top-loading machines, the fixation of the tank is more reliable than in front-loading machines. Unfortunately or fortunately, this is not the case. In fact, the principle of fastening in these types of household appliances is approximately the same. And when purchasing a washing machine, you need to proceed from other considerations.

Materials

It is quite important to consider what material the tank of the machine is made of. There are different types of material that are used to create this important part. Let's look at them:

  • Enameled metal. This type of material uses steel, which is protected by a special type of enamel.It is quite reliable when washing, but is not immune to damage associated with various impacts. If the enamel is accidentally damaged, then after a short time the tank may become unusable. Because without a protective layer it will begin to rust. Its surface may develop cracks, which will spread and increase over time. As a result, it may begin to leak. And it will need replacement. It’s good that these types of tanks are no longer found on modern models of washing machines.
  • Plastic. We also include polyplex and other polymer materials in this category. Many companies that manufacture washing machines have developed special polymer types of materials. Their names may vary. Manufacturers give different names to their products. Therefore, you may not be surprised when the question: “What is the tank of this washing machine made of?” The store clerk will answer you using incomprehensible and unknown words. Most polymer materials help reduce noise from drum rotation or save on electricity consumption. Such polymer materials are more or less durable, lightweight and do not allow water to pass through.
  • Stainless steel. This material can be called classic. It has been used to create washing machine tubs for quite some time. Stainless steel - tolerates contact with water well and is very durable. Typically, these tanks are somewhat noisier than those made of plastic. They also have more weight. The reliability of such material is very high. And, most likely, it will outlive the rest of the washing machine for a long time. True, more and more manufacturers prefer the use of polymer materials. This may be why machines with a stainless steel tank usually have a low price.

But there are other important points!

Other important qualities of a washing machine tank

Washing machines in store sale selectionBefore you buy a new washing machine, you also need to find out how much laundry you can wash at one time. It is measured in kilograms. If you have a large family and you will need to wash a lot of things, then it is better to buy a machine that can wash at least 6 kilograms at a time.

Quite often, special coatings are used for the surface of the tank. These coatings are beneficial. For example, they can disinfect water.

The most popular materials for making tanks in our time are plastic or various polymer materials and stainless steel. Both of these materials are quite acceptable and can be used for quite a long time. We have already described their advantages above. Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting the following:

  • Stainless steel is noisier and weighs more than plastic.
  • Most types of plastic are more brittle and cannot withstand the mechanical stress that stainless steel can withstand.

Plastic and various types of polymers are gradually replacing stainless steel. And, perhaps, soon we will no longer find cars for sale with a tank made of this material. But there’s nothing particularly scary about it. After all, polymer materials are also developing and it is possible that soon such developments from polymers will be used that will surpass metal in all respects.

   

Reader comments

  • Share your opinion - leave a comment

Add a comment

We recommend reading

Washing machine error codes