Stainless steel or stainless steel is a metal alloy composed of iron, chromium, carbon and nickel that is very resistant to corrosion and heat.
Depending on the type of application, other elements that modify and improve its basic characteristics, such as silicon, titanium, niobium, molybdenum, cobalt, boron and the nitrogen.
While common steels undergo the rusting process, stainless steel is generally very resistant to corrosion.
The responsible for this resistance is chromium, which depending on the amount in its composition, when it enters in contact with oxygen, it forms a protective film on the steel surface, which makes them waterproof. Stainless steel must have at least 10.50% chromium.
The addition of nickel to stainless steel gives it ductility, that is, it allows it to be worked on your surface, in addition to high temperature resistance and weldability, improving its overall strength.
applications
There are several types of stainless steel, each for a specific use. It is found in various equipment and has various uses:
- Hospital facilities;
- Cutlery segments (cutlery, pans, tableware);
- Sanitary equipment, sinks and furniture;
- Elevator linings;
- Stair rails;
- Appliances (stove, refrigerator, microwave);
- Auto parts;
- Nautical equipment;
- Construction.
Learn more about the Metal alloys.
properties
The main difference between common steel and stainless steel is that the latter does not corrode. This means that in contact with oxygen, the material will not suffer oxidation, that is, it will not rust. The tendency to oxidation is a characteristic of metals.
The use of stainless steel in the manufacture of various products is determined by its qualities for various purposes, including:
- Corrosion resistant;
- Ease of cleaning;
- Hygienic and shiny appearance;
- Hygienic material;
- Low maintenance cost;
- Resistance to temperature variation;
- High temperature resistance;
- Recyclable material.
