What To Know About Stainless Steel

We have all heard about stainless steel and that it’s superior to other types of metal. Because of this, a lot of people use it in various applications. However, what is it exactly and how is it made? Here’s some information about stainless steel.

What is Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is the name used for a group of iron-based alloys. These are metals made by combining two or more elements. However, every alloy must contain at least 10.5% chromium for it to count as stainless steel. It’s the presence of chromium that makes stainless steel resistant to corrosion. The chromium found in stainless steel creates an ultra-thin layer known as the passive layer on the steel. This layer is essential for stopping rust and other kinds of corrosion.

Stainless has several advantages. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the metal fabrication industry is likely going to grow by 9% from 2016 to 2026. This will see more application of stainless steel in various areas.

Can Stainless Steel be Affected by Rust?

One of the most common misconceptions is that stainless steel is a magical metal that never gets affected by rust. This can’t be further from the truth. Because of how it’s made, it’s highly unlikely that stainless steel will rust. However, it’s not entirely impossible. If the conditions allow, stainless steel can be affected by rust. It’s important to do proper maintenance of steel products so they don’t rust or get exposed.

Stainless Steel and Other Types of Corrosion

It’s important to understand that rust is not the only type of corrosion out there. There are several other chemicals or substances that are strong enough to corrode stainless steel. One of the most common types of corrosion that affects stainless steel is known as putting. This usually happens when the surface of stainless steel is exposed to corrosive agents for too long. The surface will start looking like there are tiny pits on the surface of the steel. If this is not quickly dealt with, it will have an impact on both the look and performance of the steel surface.

These are some of the things you need to know about stainless steel. It’s a strong material that’s fairly resistant to rust and other types of corrosion. Contact us if you want to purchase stainless steel.