When to Use Custom Stainless Steel Fabrication？

Have you ever wondered what unites a refrigerator door and a skyscraper? At the core, you will find stainless steel at play.

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Stainless steel fabricators are pivotal in creating parts for an array of applications: from cookware and home appliances to surgical instruments, medical implants, bridges, and automotive structures. Notably, many iconic structures, such as St. Louis's Gateway Arch, Chicago's Millennium Park's Bean, and the spires of the United States Air Force Memorial in Arlington, are crafted from this remarkable material.

The secret to stainless steel lies in its chromium content. All varieties boast at least 10.5% chromium, which reacts with oxygen to form a thin protective layer on the metal's surface. With various grades available, each offers distinct levels of corrosion resistance based on chromium concentration.

Are you contemplating whether stainless steel fabrication is right for your upcoming project? Which type of sheet metal should you pick? Continue reading to uncover why stainless steel might be the perfect fit for your needs.

1. Exceptional Corrosion Resistance

The primary advantage of stainless steel is its outstanding resistance to corrosion. Thanks to its chromium component, it naturally withstands rust and deterioration.

A layer of chromium oxide envelops the surface of stainless steel, safeguarding the iron beneath from moisture, air, and contaminants. This layer has a remarkable self-healing property; any scratches or damages repair themselves when oxygen is present, allowing stainless steel to maintain its shine for years.

Increasing the chromium content heightens corrosion resistance. Lower alloyed stainless steels are suitable for standard atmospheric conditions, while higher grades excel in resisting aggressive environments, such as acidic or alkaline substances.

Categories of Stainless Steel & Their Chromium Levels

• Austenitic stainless steel is widely favored, comprising around 18% chromium and offering superior strength.
• Ferritic stainless steels are less resistant, with a chromium content of 12 to 17%.
• Martensitic stainless steels contain 11 to 17% chromium.
• Duplex stainless steels feature a substantial chromium presence ranging from 18 to 28%, combining both ferritic and austenitic properties.

2. Fabrication Convenience

Next to corrosion resistance, the ease of fabrication makes stainless steel a prime choice for many projects. With the right equipment and knowledge, working with stainless steel is straightforward. It is easily cut, bent, welded, and shaped.

Nickel plays a significant role in this fabrication ease. Though not all stainless steels contain nickel, about 75% of the stainless steel produced does. Nickel transforms the steel's structure across all temperatures, enhancing ductility and formability, making it excellent for welding and deeper fabrication tasks.

3. Visual Appeal

Stainless steel stands out for its shiny, bright appearance which requires little upkeep. Once installed, it does not need additional finishing treatments or coatings to preserve its look.

You can achieve various finishes for different uses, including brushed, matte, satin-polished, or even mirror finishes. Moreover, patterned finishes can be designed for unique applications like architectural flooring or automotive parts.

4. Longevity

The durability of stainless steel is worth noting. Research indicates that its average lifespan is about 20 years, and it can be recycled efficiently at the end of its useful life.

Studies reveal that stainless steel is predominantly used in metal goods (29.4%) and industrial machinery (29.4%). Following that, it is also utilized in building materials (18.4%), automotive components (12.2%), household appliances (7.8%), and other transportation parts (2.9%).

The research suggests that stainless steel structures last an average of 50 years, while appliances made from it last around 15 years.

Despite its higher upfront cost compared to mild steel, the long lifespan and durability of stainless steel justify the investment. Although raw material costs fluctuate, the necessity for less material on account of its properties can balance the overall expenses.

5. Thermal Resistance

Stainless steel exhibits remarkable performance under high temperatures, making it a preferred choice for boilers and water valves. It demonstrates resistance to scaling and creep at elevated temperatures, with some grades enduring temperatures above a certain threshold.

Similarly, austenitic stainless steels are resilient in subzero temperatures, with grades 304 and 316 earning the title of "cryogenic steels" due to their ability to retain strength and ductility when exposed to extreme cold.

6. High Hygiene Standards

In sectors like healthcare and food processing, stainless steel is favored for its cleanliness. Its inherent properties prevent contamination from corrosion, ensuring that surfaces can be sanitized easily multiple times.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stipulates that food-contact materials should not alter food quality. Consequently, grades 304, 316, and 430 are commonly employed in food processing and packaging operations.

7. Environmentally Friendly

About half of the newly produced stainless steel in the United States comes from recycled scrap metal. This metal is completely recyclable, with approximately 85% being reused at the end of its lifecycle.

Old stainless steel can potentially be repurposed into new metal products, underscoring the material's intrinsic value. Studies reveal that among the recycled stainless steel, 56% is utilized in the production of new stainless steel and 29% for creating new carbon steel. The recycling average of stainless steel is around 71% in the U.S., confirming that it is an eco-conscious choice.

Choosing stainless steel implies assurance in its extended service life exceeding that of the finished products.

Custom Stainless Steel Fabrication

Stainless steel is the ideal contender for components requiring rust and corrosion resistance while also looking aesthetically pleasing. Its visual appeal lends itself to various applications, from automotive exterior parts to essential home appliances. Also, in sectors motivated by hygiene, stainless steel is easy to clean and sanitize, making it a preferred material choice.

Though the initial investment may be higher, the unique characteristics and advantages of stainless steel make it a solid choice that promises long-term value and durability.

For your next stainless steel fabrication project, request a quote today. Metaltech Products, Inc. has the skills and experience to guide you through the process from design to final delivery.