From architecture and construction to the food and medical industries to the automotive and aerospace industries, stainless steel has so many applications in the industrial world. These applications are made possible by a unique set of properties attributed to this steel type.
Outlined below are some key characteristics that make stainless steel suitable for use in a wide variety of jobs.
1. Stainless Steel Is an Incredibly Strong Material
Strength is one of the properties that vary the most between different grades of steel. While stainless steel isn't the sturdiest steel type available today, its highest grades offer greater strength than what most non-steel alternatives, such as aluminium, titanium and magnesium, can achieve.
It is, however, important to note that the use of stainless steel is limited to applications where weight is not a major concern. This is because a weight penalty will have to be imposed to achieve the same weight as aluminium, titanium and magnesium, which all have a higher strength-to-weight ratio than stainless steel.
2. Stainless Steel Offers a High Level of Resistance Against Corrosion
Compared to other types of steel, stainless steel offers greater resistance against corrosion. This quality is attributed to its higher chromium content. The chromium in stainless steel readily reacts with the oxygen in the atmosphere to form a thin layer of chromium oxide, which protects the substrate metal from corrosion.
The high corrosion resistance of this steel type makes it suitable for applications, such as processing and transportation of food and medicine, which demand adherence to high standards of hygiene.
Structures that are exposed to highly corrosive environments, such as house exterior cladding, boats and aircraft can also benefit from the corrosion resistance of stainless steel.
3. Stainless Steel Is Highly Ductile
Due to the fact that they contain higher amounts of nickel, higher grades of stainless steel are generally more ductile than carbon steels. This property makes it easier to work with because the material won't easily get distorted when bent.
4. Stainless Steel Is an Aesthetic and Economical Choice
In certain applications, stainless steel is favoured purely based on appearance. Stainless steel provides a unique, industrial look that other steel types can't beat without getting a surface finish.
As stainless steel doesn't need a surface finish to look great, it helps to save money on fabrication costs.
In stainless steel fabrication, the fabricator must understand the specific properties of stainless steel in order to make components that will meet the requirements of the client's job. Contact a steel fabricator near you to discuss your project needs and determine the best steel products for your job.
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