Many OEMs build manifolds out of aluminum to make for a cheaper and lighter manifold as it is much easier to machine the softer, more malleable metal. But cutting corners does come with steep tradeoffs in manifold durability and longevity.
- Here are some issues you may be experiencing:
- Aluminum manifolds arise from exposure to constant high flow applications as fluids erode the soft internals of the manifold block, resulting in washouts.
- With steel being much harder than aluminum, overtightened steel screws, bolts, and fittings can easily strip the manifold’s port threading, a non-repairable issue that ruins the manifold.
- Impacts and vibrations from top drive operation can result in stress fractures or chipping and wear along the corners in an aluminum manifold, further reducing its longevity and functionality.
All these issues will result in a ruined manifold block as the system’s internal structure is too worn to maintain the correct flow rates and the system can no longer do what it is meant to.
