Everything you need to know about stainless steel
Versatile and durable, stainless steel is a highly useful metal that looks good in a variety of situations and is generally resistant to oxidation. Whether it is used in a domestic or industrial environment, stainless steel delivers form and function.
Strength and heat resistance
Strong and resistant to temperature fluctuation
Stainless steel is tough, will last for a long time and can support a significant amount of weight, which means it can be used in a wide variety of situations. It is an excellent choice for work surfaces and surrounds in commercial and domestic kitchens, as it is resistant to heat and can be cleaned easily. An article in the Guardian has more ideas for using stainless steel in a domestic kitchen, such as units and work surfaces
Chemically, stainless steel is what is called an alloy, or blend of metals, and typically contains at least 10.5 per cent chromium. Other additives, such as those to increase strength, will produce different types of stainless steel.
Hygiene and ease of maintenance
Ease of use
Stainless steel is generally easy to maintain, while its ease of cleaning means it is appropriate in environments where food or medicines are being handled and hygiene is of high importance. Popular in the catering world, the anti-bacterial properties of stainless steel mean it is an excellent choice for storing pharmaceuticals; in addition, many medical instruments are made from stainless steel.
Uses in industry, architecture and construction
This versatile material is also used in industry and the automotive sector, where it can be moulded into many elements for making cars. In architecture and building, stainless steel has a wide variety of applications. Bending machines can shape it into all kinds of pipes and other elements necessary for constructing homes.
If you want to find out more about the possibilities of bending machines for shaping stainless steel or other kinds of metal, contact a specialist for help and advice.
It is difficult to imagine the modern world without the stylish practicality of stainless steel. Dependable, long-lasting and with an appearance that complements many locales, stainless steel is a great choice for a hardwearing material that can fulfil a number of uses. Although corrosion has always been an issue with iron, the addition of chromium to the alloy ensured it would resist corrosion and deliver enduring appeal and performance.
Summary
This article explains why stainless steel is widely used across domestic and industrial settings. It covers its strength and resistance to temperature and weight, the chromium content that defines it as an alloy, its ease of cleaning and hygiene benefits in catering and medical settings, and its use in the automotive sector, architecture and construction, where bending machines shape it into pipes and structural elements.
Questions this article raises
- How does the chromium percentage affect stainless steel’s corrosion resistance?
- Which grades of stainless steel suit outdoor construction best?
- How does stainless steel’s cost compare with other metals for the same use?
