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Why Stainless Steel is stainless?
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Saturday, 16 May, 2009, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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So what do we mean when we say that stainless steel is stainless? Does that mean if we spill our coffee on it that it won't stain? Not exactly. The name gets it origin from the fact that stainless steel corrodes or rusts less easily than ordinary steel. In this article we'll look into the chemistry behind stainless steel and find out what makes it stainless.
Stainless steels (there are many varieties depending on the applications) have a higher resistance to oxidation (which causes rust) and corrosion in a wide variety of environmental conditions. They are often used where both the structural integrity is important as well as the finish on the steel itself, such as in skyscrapers, ornamental finishing and appliances. Stainless steels are made with a minimum of 10.5% chromium content. It is this element that gives stainless steel its ability to "stain less" when compared to other steel types.
It is the chromium in the steel that combined with oxygen to form a thin, invisible layer of chrome-containing oxide. This layer protects the steel underneath and has a unique self-healing ability. Should the layer become scratched or cut, the newly exposed steel will form another protective area with oxygen in the air.
It is important to know that stainless steel is not rust and corrosion proof, just resistant. As we talked about above, stainless steel 'stains less' than other steels but that does not mean it won't corrode or rust. If the wrong type of stainless steel is used for the wrong application then it will behave like any other iron-based metal and start corroding when exposed to oxygen. If we were to take a piece of stainless steel and place is in salt water the salt would destroy the protective layer faster than it could be repaired and result in corrosion.
Many times, especially in household use, metals may be stainless steel plated. While this plate provides corrosion resistance and rust protection it does not fully protect the metal should it become deeply scratched or cut. In addition, plates can improperly applied and wear off over time and use. It is important when purchasing any item that claims to be made of stainless steel to ask if the steel is completely stainless or if it is just top-level plating with a cheaper steel or metal underneath.
Today stainless steel appliances grace the kitchens of both commercial eateries as well as our homes. And after all, who would want a rusty refrigerator?
Swastik International Co. is one young, Dynamic & vibrant company which has complete technical know-how of STAINLESS STEEL & it is backed by group of highly qualified, experienced & technical professionals who are in the business of Stainless steel for over a decade.
Swastik International Co is a Mumbai; India based Factory engaged in the manufacturing & exports of various types of stainless steel Kitchen, Bath & Barware products for Hotel & Homes. We also have dedicated & specialised factories for making Kitchen tools, Cutlery, Canisters, Chaffing dish, Casseroles, Dutch ovens, Baking trays, Platters, Serving trays, Compartment trays, Fish trays, Square trays, Camping Mugs, Mixing Bowls, Colanders, Fry Pans, Sauce Pans, Saute Pans, Stock Pots, Steamers, Ash trays, Cappuccino sets, Ice Buckets, Cocktail shakers, Wine coolers etc.
Vivek Sinha. The author is a seasoned professional with in-depth knowledge of stainless steel and its components. He also owns 4 factories in Mumbai where he personally takes care of all operations to make high-quality stainless steel kitchen wares.
Contact:
E-mail: vivek@swastikint.com
Mobile: +91 09920619929
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