technical insight
How to enhance the beauty of stainless steel
What is stainless steel? Stainless steels are inherently corrosion-resistant materials that do not need additional surface protection like painting, galvanising or anodising to enhance their appearance and lifespan. Stainless steel is protected by a thin surface layer. The strength of the layer and thus the protection, is generated from chromium in the stainless steel and oxygen from the air. Many grades of stainless steel are available for different applications. Thus, the first step would be to select the correct grade of stainless steel for the application. Sassda and its members will be able to supply all relevant information to guide the selection process. Unlike rust (also a surface layer), the surface layer on stainless steel does not readily react with most substances, hence being called the passive layer. Like human skin, this layer can repair itself, given that the affected surface is clean with access to environmental oxygen. This explains the fact that some routine and simple maintenance and cleaning are needed to keep stainless steel surfaces in good condition so that the aesthetic appearance and corrosion resistance are not compromised.
Where is stainless steel used in my home and kitchen? Stainless steel touches every part of our lives and can be used for various functions and applications in and around the house. This would range from security fencing and garden furniture to creations of art, balustrades, kitchen surfaces and appliances; even fireplaces or wherever the superior properties of the material are needed. Stainless steel is mainly selected for corrosion resistance and durability. Combining this with the aesthetic appearance, versatility, hygiene, and safety properties, it renders a popular environmentally safe product with exceptional Life Cycle Costing benefits. How do I clean exterior surfaces? On external applications, such as façades, washing of the surfaces can be a natural process where rainfall can normally be expected to clean accumulations of dirt and other deposits efficiently, depending on the amount of exposure to corrosion agents and whether the design allows for efficient run-off and the surface smoothness.
29 Issue 2 – 2023
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