Stainless steel is a versatile metal used in the plumbing industry to manufacture fittings, valves, pipes, and other fixtures. Its properties make it suitable for varying conditions. However, there are a few misconceptions about this material. This article will address seven common misunderstandings about stainless steel products and their facts.
Stainless Steel: A Sturdy Metal.
Stainless steel is a metal composed chiefly of iron and has chromium content. Other metals like nickel and titanium may also be used in its formation. These metals add to the strength of the metal, making it versatile and sturdy. Due to its multifaceted properties, it is employed in various applications.
Be it plumbing or industrial products, stainless steel is the primary choice. Its dynamic properties fit the demanding environments. However, there are certain myths about the metal. Let’s check out the common misunderstandings about stainless steel and their facts.
Types of Stainless Steel:
To debunk stainless steel myths, it’s essential to first address its types. It has a wide range of alloys, broadly classified into major categories and further into series. Here is a brief description of the significant classes.
Austenitic:
This type of stainless steel is found in the majority of the products. It is expected because of its non-corroding and malleable nature. 304 and 316 are the grades that fall in this category. This type can bear intermediate temperature, but increasing chromium content improves capacity. This type is somewhat prone to corrosion when exposed to chlorides.
Ferritic:
Ferritic type is not very common for regular products. Titanium or niobium is used in composition to enhance its strength. Thus, the products can bear high temperatures, chlorides, and saltwater. Alloy 405 and 409 fall in this class. Ferritic stainless steel is used in marine applications.
Duplex:
Duplex stainless steel has combined properties of both ferritic and austenitic. They have good corrosion, excellent strength, and flexibility. They can be subjected to high temperatures like alloy 2205. The nickel content in duplex varies depending on the ferritic or austenitic matrix. This combination is resilient in handling chemicals and corrosives.
Martensitic:
Martensitic type often emerges as a replacement for carbon steel. It is used in bearings and other complex spare parts to save from the risk of erosion and corrosion. Though its corrosion-proof properties are not excellent, its hardness is exceptional. Alloy 410 and 420 are common examples known for their wear resistance.
7 Common Misunderstandings About Stainless Steel:
Here are the seven common stainless steel myths and the reality behind them. Let’s explore each one of them in detail to get a thorough understanding of the subject.
Number 01: All Stainless Steel Alloys are the Same.
One of the primary myths is that all stainless steel products are made up of the same type. Though a few grades are more common in the plumbing industry than others. Knowing the differences in alloys is necessary for their apt usage. Also, their prices vary depending upon the contents of other metals.
The most frequently used alloys are 304 and 316 grades. Their names suggest the metallic content in their composition. 304 is one of the oldest grades and is common in residential plumbing. When compared to brass, this grade proves to be more corrosion-resistant.
316 Alloy is ideal for industrial and commercial applications in heavy-duty environments. It offers ideal resistance against corrosion and ensures the longevity of the product. Alloys 400 series offer high ambient temperature strength. These are common in seawater for their resistance to chlorides. Hence, plumbing products are not merely composed of a single alloy; they are different.
Number 02: Stainless Steel’s Magnetism Affects its Quality.
It is a myth that the magnetism of stainless steel affects corrosion resistance. It is a common belief that a magnet is used to ensure the quality of stainless steel. Quality is up to the mark if the magnet does not stick to it. However, this is completely baseless as each stainless steel alloy offers a different magnetism.
The fact is that the intensity of magnetism has nothing to do with the corrosion resistance of this alloy. The stainless steel series 200 has less magnetic attraction than the 300 series. The 300 series is much more corrosion-resistant than the 200. Alloy 301 becomes magnetic when cold worked and has excellent corrosion resistance.
So, the magnetism of each alloy varies and depends on how the product is manufactured. But it does not affect its quality or corrosion resistance. What matters is the composition of the metal. For example, chromium creates a thin oxide layer, ideal to prevent corrosion. Other metals like nickel also add to strength and quality regardless of magnetism.
Number 03: Stainless Steel is Difficult to Machine.
For manufacturers, this myth may be a reason to prefer other metals above stainless steel. The hardness of stainless steel is often misunderstood as difficult to work with. The fact is that stainless steel requires a certain degree of experience in handling. Besides, its composition makes it a tough metal that is not difficult to machine.
Industries are using advanced tools for cutting and molding metals. Each metal needs a different approach for reshaping, and so does stainless steel. Having the right tools and machines ultimately leads to effortless machining of the alloys. Skilled craftsmanship also results in the robustness of manufacturing.
Welding stainless steel is challenging due to conduction. But that, too, is manageable with suitable tools. Machining this metal is much more feasible with appropriate approaches. The long-term output of the stainless steel products is worth it.
Number 04: Stainless Steel Changes Water Taste.
Many believe that stainless steel alters the taste of potable water that passes through it. That is one of the reasons they hesitate to prefer stainless steel over brass in such usage. However, the fact is known to be otherwise. Almost all SS alloys are safe for carrying drinking water.
Stainless steel is a nonreactive metal. Which means it cannot leach into water or change its taste. This property makes it altogether a suitable choice for plumbing products. Besides, it does not rust easily so that it won’t compromise water quality. This strengthens the opinion of using stainless steel in residential plumbing.
Due to the strength and toughness of metal, it does not release any chemicals in water. It also maintains water integrity by not contaminating it. Thus, debunking stainless steel myths, it should be noted that this metal is risk-free for potable water.
Number 05: Stainless Steel Does Not Corrode.
It is another common but misleading myth that stainless steel does not rust at all. To get the underlying fact, it is essential to know the nature of metal’s composition. Chromium is the chief element that enhances its corrosion resistance. It forms a thin oxide layer at the product’s surface, preventing it from rusting and wearing. This layer, although durable, can be prone to corrosion. The oxide layer begins decaying When it comes into contact with salt water or chlorine. Thus, in the long run, the product can corrode. The matter of corrosion depends upon selecting a particular grade for specific use.
Therefore, the selection of stainless steel products should be done carefully. Suitability for the environment is necessary, as it will lead to securing the oxide layer. In a nutshell, being strongly resistant to corrosion, stainless steel is not one hundred percent immune to it. No other metal is either.
Number 06: Stainless Steel is Too Costly.
Another misconception is that stainless steel is way too expensive. Its initial cost might be higher than some cheap alternatives, but its long-term value is worth it. So, there remains no reason to compare the cost of agile and sturdy metals with low-quality metals. Debunking stainless steel myths about cost is necessary to clear the facts. Alloys of stainless steel are built to last and have the least maintenance requirements. These products have excellent corrosion resistance and pressure handling capacity. This saves you money from spending on repairs and replacements, which is wasted in the case of lower metals.
In plumbing, stainless steel fittings, valves, and pipes are suitable for their efficiency. This metal does not compromise potable water quality, so the price factor no longer stands. Thus, stainless steel products are more economical in the long run than poor-quality metals.
Number 07: Stainless Steel is Not Environment-Friendly.
One of the common misunderstandings about stainless steel is that it is not eco-friendly. Its basis lies in the energy-intensive production of the metal. In contrast, the truth is that it is one of the most sustainable materials out there. It has the least environmental impact compared to some other alternative metals.
Stainless steel can be recycled_often up to a hundred percent. Most of the new products come from recycling old ones. The long working span of stainless steel is also a conservation sign. They are durable and long-lasting, which leads to less replacement and is hence sustainable.
This also reduces waste and resource consumption when a single product can perform longer. When we analyze stainless steel products, from making to serving, they can be aptly regarded as eco-friendly. They leave the least environmental footprints and contribute to the conservation of resources.
Conclusion:
Putting it together, stainless steel is a durable, tough, and resilient metal. It is particularly suitable for plumbing products due to the striking combination of required properties. The stainless steel myths arise from a need for more awareness among laypeople. Knowing the facts is important for deciding on the suitable material for your business. To get the best stainless steel fittings, valves, and faucets, get them here on Plumberstar.
FAQs:
Is Stainless Steel Rust-Proof?
Yes, stainless steel has excellent rust resistance. Its metallic composition enables a strong shield against rust. But, when exposed to a certain environment, they do catch rust. For example, 304 grade is susceptible to rust when it comes in contact with some chemical that affects its oxide layer.
Is Stainless Steel Safe for Handling Food?
Yes, stainless steel is not only safe but preferable for handling food. It is widely applicable in food manufacturing and preservation industries. This metal is nonreactive; thus, it does not release any chemicals or contamination in food. It keeps food fresh and as it is without compromising on its quality.
Is Stainless Steel Difficult to Clean?
No, stainless steel is easier to clean and maintain. Although it is named “stainless,” it does not mean it won’t get any stains. It means even when it gets stains, they are easy to remove with a damp cloth, soap, or glass cleaner. It immediately restores the product to a stainless state.
How to Prevent Stainless Steel Corrosion?
Many stainless steel grades are hardly prone to corrosion, which is also true after a long span. But, it sometimes corrodes under special conditions. To prevent it, the first step should be proper selection before buying a product. Next, the product should not be exposed to the elements which weaken its corrosion resistance. Third, regular maintenance and care increase the chances of preventing corrosion.