15 Dec Why Aluminum Water Control Equipment Outperforms Cast Iron
Efficiency Meets Durability: Aluminum vs. Cast Iron Water Control Equipment
At Whipps, Inc., we know that material selection can make all the difference in water control applications. From wastewater treatment plants to irrigation systems, choosing the right gate material affects not only performance but also long-term maintenance, cost, and reliability. Our fabricated aluminum gates are designed to deliver exceptional results where cast iron once dominated by offering a lighter, more efficient, and cost-effective solution for modern water management systems.
With decades of experience designing and manufacturing custom water control equipment, Whipps, Inc. has proven that aluminum offers outstanding strength, corrosion resistance, and longevity in most water and wastewater environments. Our 800 Series Aluminum Gates are engineered to provide superior sealing, low maintenance, and reliable operation at a fraction of the weight and cost of cast iron gates.
Built for Reliable, Long-Term Performance
Whipps aluminum gates feature UV-stabilized UHMW seat/seals that maintain their shape and integrity in demanding conditions. These resilient seals provide a tight, dependable closure and prevent metal-to-metal contact, reducing friction and ensuring smooth operation for years of continuous service.
Our aluminum gates achieve leakage rates not exceeding 0.10 gpm/ft of seal perimeter under both seating and unseating head conditions. This performance surpasses the standards outlined in AWWA C-501 for Cast Iron Sluice Gates and AWWA C-560 for Cast Iron Slide Gates, even in high-head service scenarios. In short, Whipps aluminum gates provide precision sealing that meets or exceeds the most demanding industry benchmarks.
Lightweight Efficiency and Cost Advantages
Compared to cast iron, aluminum provides significant advantages in weight, handling, and cost efficiency. Fabricated aluminum gates typically cost less than cast iron, stainless steel, and fiberglass alternatives, thanks to their streamlined manufacturing process and lower raw material expenses.
Because Whipps, Inc. maintains a large inventory of aluminum materials, our fabrication and delivery times are faster, allowing contractors and facility managers to meet project deadlines more efficiently. Aluminum’s lightweight design also reduces shipping and installation labor costs, making it ideal for both new installations and retrofit applications where weight and accessibility are key considerations.
Low Maintenance, High Durability
Unlike cast iron gates, aluminum water control equipment requires minimal maintenance. There’s no need for periodic painting, and the material naturally resists corrosion, even in humid or chemically active environments. Aluminum gates also require less operator attention, maintaining consistent functionality without the risk of seizing, rusting, or requiring frequent adjustments.
This makes aluminum an excellent long-term investment for facilities seeking to minimize downtime and operational costs while maintaining high performance and reliability. Whether managing clean water or wastewater, Whipps aluminum gates stand up to years of service with exceptional consistency.
Custom Solutions Backed by Proven Expertise
Every water management application presents its own set of challenges—flow rates, pressures, environmental exposure, and installation conditions all vary by site. That’s why Whipps, Inc. designs and fabricates each aluminum gate to meet project-specific requirements.
From embedded and wall-mounted installations to channel-mounted configurations, our aluminum gates are engineered for flexibility, long-term reliability, and precise control. We work closely with engineers and contractors to ensure every gate performs exactly as needed, providing durable, lightweight control solutions that outperform cast iron in nearly every category.
A Smarter Alternative for Modern Water Control
Since 1977, Whipps, Inc. has been a trusted name in custom water control equipment. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship, superior materials, and precise engineering continues to set us apart. For projects where weight, corrosion resistance, and cost efficiency matter, aluminum gates from Whipps, Inc. offer the perfect balance of performance and practicality.
Looking to replace aging cast iron gates or upgrade your facility’s water control performance? Contact Whipps, Inc. today to learn how our aluminum gates can improve your system’s reliability and efficiency.