Get the most from your stainless steel applications

Although the majority of stainless steel applications work perfectly as intended by the designer and fabricator, there are a significant number of instances where someone, often the consumer, is disappointed by the performance. The causes of these problems tend to fall into a few categories. In most of all these cases, a little basic knowledge would have prevented or significantly improved the situation. The causes of these problems can arise at any point in the long supply chain of many stainless steel projects. This helps explain why problems occur. Most specifiers and designers understand the importance of selecting the right grade of stainless steel. The importance of surface finish determines corrosion resistance and more. The lack of specified grade or surface finish on architectural drawings can be the sources of problems.

It is also of great Importance to keep in mind segregating carbon and stainless steel. Often "rusting" of stainless steel turns out to be nothing of this kind. It is the rusting of carbon steel which can contaminate the surface of the stainless steel at points in the production process. Possible sources of contamination include tools, chains, dust, sparks and other environmental exposures. It is also important to remember to keep stainless steel cleaned and maintained. Many people think that stainless steel's corrosion resistant surface repels dirt and other contaminants. Like any surface stainless steel requires maintenance. These are just a few of many examples to get the most out of your stainless steel applications.