Stainless steel is an alloy that contains 10.5% or more of chromium. Unlike carbon steel, stainless steel is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, and it also maintains its finish in virtually any envrionment. Due to these features, stainless steel is used in a wide variety of applications in multiple industries.
Food Storage And Preparation
Stainless steel is easy to clean and sanitize, and it does not break down in the presence of salt or acid, two ingredients that help to preserve most processed foods. Consequently, stainless steel is used widely in the food industry. Cooking implements like pots, pans, and baking sheets are often made of stainless steel as are many appliances, work counters, and storage containers. Shipping containers for food are also frequently made of stainless steel because of its resistance to corrosion.
Medical Equipment
The ease with which stainless steel can be sterilized makes it extremely useful for medical equipment. Surgical and dental tools are made from stainless steel as are many large pieces of equipment like operating tables, sinks, and scanning machines. Surgical implants such as pins, plates, and replacement joints are made with stainless steel alloys that are extra-resistant to corrosion and biological reactions. The metal is also used for orthodontic brackets and wires.
Energy Industries
The strength of stainless steel along with its resistance to corrosion makes it ideal for use in energy industries. High-grade stainless steel is used to contain and transport oil and gas at high temperatures. The toxic and highly corrosive substances must be contained in a highly-resistant metal pipe or tank. Oil rigs are constructed of high-grade stainless steel that can survive the corrosive environment of salt water.
Architecture
Stainless steel was popularized as a construction material in the days of Art Deco when it was used to add decorative features to buildings. Because stainless steel maintains its finish and needs very little maintenance, it is still commonly used in the exterior cladding and indoor fixtures, like handrails and door handles, of many large buildings. Stainless steel is also a popular construction material because it is composed mainly of recycled metals and because its reflective finish allows more light into a building, making the building more energy efficient.
Stainless steel is also used in making jewelry, automobiles, trains, and aircraft and in many other applications. For more information about Industrial Stainless Steel. You can also follow them on Twitter for more information.
