Typical stainless steel applications
Stainless steel is a versatile material. Originally used in the manufacture of cutlery, it soon found its way into the chemical industry due to its corrosion resistance. Today, corrosion resistance is still very important and its mechanical properties are gradually being recognised as the material melts steadily. It is a material that continues to find new applications every day. Below, you will find a number of applications in which stainless steel has excelled over the years.
Tableware and kitchen utensils
Stainless steel cutlery Probably the best-known use of stainless steel is in the manufacture of tableware and cookware. The best cutlery is produced using specially produced grades of 410 and 420 stainless steel for knives and grade 304 stainless steel (18/8 steel, 18% chromium, 8% nickel) for spoons and forks. The different grades used, such as 410/420, can be hardened and tempered so that the blade has a sharp edge, while the more ductile 18/8 stainless steel is easier to work with and is therefore more suitable for objects that must undergo multiple shaping, polishing and grinding processes.
Industrial chemistry, oil and gas processing
Probably the most demanding industries for the use of stainless steel are the oil and gas chemical processing industries. These industries have created a huge market for the manufacture of steel tanks, pipes (based on stainless steel tubing), pumps and valves. one of the first major developments in 304 stainless steel was for dilute nitric acid containers, as it could be used in thinner sections and was stronger than other materials. Special grades of steel have been developed to provide greater corrosion resistance over a wide range of temperatures. Stainless steel fittings and valves, as well as other fittings, are used in desalination plants, sewage plants, offshore oil platforms, harbour supports and ship propellers.
Power generation
Stainless steel and other corrosion resistant alloys are used extensively in the power generation industry to combat corrosion, especially at high temperatures. In particular, nickel alloys are used for high temperature strength and oxidation resistance in fossil fuel power plants. Nickel alloys and other stainless steels are also used extensively in fuel gas sulphurisation units.
The nuclear power industry also uses a large number of stainless steels, often especially with low cobalt content, for power generation and radiation control. Special louvred ventilation shafts are made of steel and are designed for use in emergency situations and to seal the plant for years if necessary. Stainless steel is used in steam and gas turbines because of its heat and corrosion resistant properties.
Food production
A large amount of stainless steel is used for food production and storage. The most commonly used grades are 304 and 316. generally speaking, 304 is essentially the workhorse grade, while 316 is used in harsh environments. An important reason for using stainless steel is not the corrosive nature of the food itself, but the fact that cleaning can be carried out more quickly and efficiently using steel. For example, in ice cream production, 316 stainless steel sheets are used because they are strong and resistant to bacterial cleaning, as well as allowing the use of rinsing systems. A major advantage of stainless steel is that it does not impart any flavour to the food with which it comes into contact.
Architecture, buildings and construction
Architecture, buildings and construction is a growing market in which many modern buildings use stainless steel for cladding, roofing and facades. Another feature is its characteristic low maintenance and vandal resistant properties, which are attracting an increasing number of markets such as public transport, vending machines and street furniture. In addition, stainless steel is used for architectural purposes. When reinforced concrete was first put into use, it was thought that the carbon steel used would not rust like cement because it came from limestone, which is alkaline. However, the constant use of grain salts in bridge construction could change the pH to acidic oxidation, which could cause the steel to swell into cracks in the cement. Initially, the stainless steel bar was expensive, but it has proved to have a good life cycle relative to the cost.
Medical applications
Cast and sterilised stainless steel is used for medical implants and artificial hip joints. Many medical devices – such as orthopaedic beds, cabinets and testing machines – are made from steel as a standard material because of its hygienic and easy-to-clean characteristics. Pharmaceutical companies also use stainless steel for a variety of products.
Automobiles
The use of stainless steel in automobiles has increased over time, mainly for exhaust systems (class 409) and catalytic converters, in addition to structural uses. As a result, there is a greater focus on lower long-term maintenance costs, lower environmental impact and a greater concern for life-cycle costs. As a result, the stainless steel market continues to improve.