The Advantages of Stainless Steel
Most people have heard of stainless steel at some point in their lives. They have likely seen this material used in a wide variety of products, from kitchenware to medical instruments, yet few realize why so many designers prefer this material to others.
If you're looking for a strong, versatile material, consider the following benefits of stainless steel.
Corrosion-Resistant
One of the most valuable assets of stainless steel is its resistance to corrosion. Lower grades of stainless steel can withstand corrosion in water environments and basic atmospheric conditions. And higher grades of stainless steel can withstand corrosion caused by acid and alkaline solutions.
Stainless steel offers this high resistance to corrosion due to its layer of chromium oxide. This protective layer makes stainless steel ideal for industrial plants or hospitals that require a corrosionresistant metal.
Strong
Certain high-strength grades of stainless steel create an impressive strength-to-weight ratio compared with other materials. Stainless steel can resist chemical damage, corrosion and heat damage even when it's in a thin state.
Manufacturers will often add carbon to certain stainless steel grades to improve strength. These carbon and stainless steel compounds are ideal for making cutlery, tools and razor blades.
When manufacturers use cold-work hardening techniques, they can reduce the stainless steel's weight and thickness. On the contrary, when manufacturers use heat to harden the stainless steel material, they can increase its strength. The options of both hot and cold hardening techniques for austenitic grades of stainless steel prove the material's strength compared with other conventional materials.
Attractive
Many consumers prefer stainless steel's shiny, smooth surface. For those who want a different look, you can add other surface finishes to stainless steel as well. Its aesthetic makes stainless steel ideal for a variety of products that require both attractiveness and strength.
Additionally, owners of stainless steel don't have to worry about this material rusting, fading or staining over time. This material nearly always maintains its colour and beauty. Stainless steel can also resist many types of blemishes, including fingerprints, scuff marks and smudges. If you need to ensure your stainless steel's cleanliness, you can even apply a protective cleaner to maintain the shiny, smooth surface.
Because consumers find stainless steel so easy to maintain, they can keep their products looking like new with ease for many years.
Hygienic
Another benefit of stainless steel is how easy it is to clean. Many hospitals, pharmaceutical facilities and kitchens rely on this material because they need a completely hygienic atmosphere. Fortunately, stainless steel doesn't absorb germs, making it ideal for a sanitary environment.
Versatile
Nearly all stainless steel can be fabricated, machined, cut and welded as needed. This versatility gives manufacturers the opportunity to mould the material into many different shapes for different uses, including the following:
- Appliances
- Building materials
- Cookware
- Hardware
- Sheets
- Skyscrapers
- Surgical instruments
- Tubes
- Wire
In fact, it's difficult to think of a place you can't find stainless steel. The material's resistance to corrosion, low maintenance, strength-weight ratio and aesthetic features make it a preferred material for many commercial uses.
Eco-Friendly
Finally, stainless steel is completely recyclable, so you can feel good knowing that you're promoting a healthier planet. If you ever need to retire stainless steel from a worn-out or damaged product, find a metal recycling plant to dispose of the unneeded material.
Choose Stainless Steel for Your Next Project
The benefits listed above make stainless steel one of the most preferred materials in the industry. The next time you'd like to create a product that lasts, be it hospital equipment or handrails, consider stainless steel. Contact a stainless steel specialist to discuss your next project.