The Advantages of Stainless Steel

By websitebuilder • October 7, 2016

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.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Steel Gate or Railing

By By websitebuilder • October 10, 2016
Steel is one of the most durable and versatile construction materials available. Not only does steel form the framework for most buildings you pass each day, but steel also makes up many railings you may lean on and benches where you may rest. A steel gate and fence can protect your property from intruders and beautify your main entrance. Outdoor steel railings help ensure that your employees and patrons can safely navigate your property. In this blog, we cover the basic design and maintenance steps needed to get the most out of these commercial steel structures.

5 Facts About Stainless Steel That May Surprise You

By By websitebuilder • October 7, 2016
Stainless steel is a versatile metal that people around the world use for projects of all sizes, from buildings to watches. You likely use stainless steel every day without realizing it. Although you use this metal so often, how much do you really know about it? Consider these interesting facts about stainless steel the next time you use this common metal. 

8 Top Benefits of Engraved Signage

By By websitebuilder • October 7, 2016
Regardless of what industry you operate in, your company signage is key to how well your business does. You need a sign outside that tells customers who you are and what you do. You need signs inside to indicate whose office is whose and which way to go to find the restroom. You need signs to warn employees of danger or to leave vital instructions. Engraved signage represents the best medium for all these signs. A modern business can utilise all of these different types of signs and have them last forever. The signs stay readable for years, and the company avoids spending money on replacement signs. In this blog, we go over eight of the top benefits of engraved signage for your company.

Best Methods to Clean Common Metals

By By websitebuilder • October 7, 2016
After you invest in a metal product, you want it to keep its original shine for as long as possible. Like most materials, metal products can get stains and smudges. However, you can keep your metal looking like new by using some simple cleaning methods, such as those we discuss below.

5 Common Applications of Laser Engraving

By By websitebuilder • October 7, 2016
Laser engraving represents one of the most versatile and accessible forms of marking available. For this reason, contractors, industrial manufacturers, site managers and even homeowners use this process for applications in a variety of industries. Even if you don't work in a commercial or industrial setting, you've probably seen laser engraved signs, mementoes or awards. In this blog, we discuss the five most common applications of laser engraving and when you might want to hire a professional to provide these services.

The Advantages of Fabricated Aluminum

By By websitebuilder • October 7, 2016
When you hear the word 'aluminum,' you may think of soda cans or other food and beverage containers. But the uses of aluminum extend far beyond food packaging. In a previous blog, 'The Advantages of Stainless Steel,' we introduced you to one of the most commonly used construction and manufacturing materials currently available. In this blog, we discuss fabricated aluminum, which represents one of the only materials advantageous enough to compete with stainless steel in some applications. Beneficial characteristics of fabricated aluminum include the following.