Material Selection Factors
| Factor | Ideal Material | Trade-off |
| Thermal Conductivity | Copper > Aluminum > Steel | Copper is expensive and less strong. |
| Corrosion Resistance | Stainless Steel > Copper > Aluminum > Carbon Steel | Stainless Steel has lower thermal conductivity and higher cost. |
| Mechanical Strength | Steel > Stainless Steel > Copper > Aluminum | Steel corrodes easily. |
| Cost | Carbon Steel > Aluminum > Stainless Steel > Copper | Cheaper materials often have performance limitations. |