Silver Star Metal Fabricating has always known the many benefits of stainless steel as a material. Many engineers and designers are beginning to see these benefits during material selection. These benefits were overlooked in the past due to the higher initial costs but over the years the price of stainless steel has become more competitive and thus is being used more frequently. Its durability compared to other materials is unmatched. Some of these benefits are as follows:
Corrosion Resistance
All stainless steel is naturally corrosion resistant. The degree of corrosion resistance will depend on the type or grade of stainless steel. There are many types of stainless steel but the three most common are type 304, 316, and 430. Learn more about the types of stainless steel.
Grades with a lower alloy resist corrosion from the elements and fresh water environments. For most applications these grades will stand up over time as compared to other metals. High-alloyed grades can resist corrosion to most acids, salt water, alkaline solutions, chlorine, and other harsh environments.
Fire & Heat Resistance
The high chromium and nickel-alloyed grades resist scaling and retain strength at high temperatures.
Hygiene
Perhaps its most popular benefit is it ability to be easily cleaned. It is a non-porous material and as such it does not have places where mould and bacteria can hide. It is the primary choice for strict hygiene conditions such as hospitals, kitchens, and food processing equipment.
Aesthetic Appearance
The bright, reflective, and easily maintained surface of stainless steel provides a clean, fresh, and modern look. This appearance is easily maintained and can last for decades.
Learn more about the maintenance and care of stainless steel.
Strength-to-Weight Advantage
The austenitic grades of stainless steel are hardened which results in significant strength advantages in comparison to conventional steel. These strength advantages allow for a lighter material with a lower overall cost.
Ease of Fabrication
Advances in tools, machinery, and techniques have made working with stainless steel easier. This means that it can be laser cut, punched, welded, formed, ground, and polished just as easily as traditional steels. It is worth noting that due to its increased hardness it will require more force and energy during these fabricating processes. As a result of this the tools and machinery that work with stainless steel are more costly and require more frequent maintenance.
Impact Resistance
The austenitic 300 series grades provides solid resistance to high and low temperatures. This makes this material well suitable for applications where temperatures are far below freezing.
Long Term Value
Over the life of a product stainless steel is often the least expensive material option. It offers a greater durability over other materials which may rust, corrode, crack, chip, rot, warp, and twist.
Sustainability
In order to be sustainable a material must be environmentally friendly. This means it must be durable and corrosion resistant, recyclable, and provide a long service life. Stainless steel is one of the most durable materials in the world which is recycled with a minimum impact to the environment. Is is incredibly durable and with its clean, fresh, and modern look it will remain timeless.
