What are the benefits of using stainless steel in building projects?
26 sierpnia 2022
Stainless steel’s resistance to corrosion, looks, and performance make it ideal for a wide range of architectural projects. When designing in stainless steel, account for these features to obtain the best results.
What makes steel stainless?
Stainless steel refers to a group of corrosion-resistant steel alloys that contain at least 10.5% chromium. Stainless steel contains chromium, which reacts with oxygen in the air to produce a thin film of oxide that coats and protects the surface of the steel. The corrosion-resistant properties of stainless steel are due to the presence of this film. The key difference between this passive film and other coatings like paint or galvanising is that if it’s damaged, it repairs itself and continues to safeguard the steel.
The different factors to consider when choosing stainless steel
Many people choose stainless steel for their projects because it doesn’t corrode and looks great. It is crucial to comprehend the elements that go into choosing both the grade and surface finish. This ensures that the product’s performance is following people’s expectations.
It is fairly well known that the grade of stainless steel affects its performance. What many people don’t know is that surface finish plays an integral role in corrosion resistance. Stainless steel’s performance can be hampered by poor-quality polished surfaces.
In addition to the polished surfaces, you can find an extensive variety of patterned and coloured surfaces. The surface finishes for stainless steel can include a bright and polished look or a more dull matt finish, depending on the application.
Stainless steel structural design
An increasing number of individuals and companies are beginning to use stainless steel as a key material in construction. It’s critical to incorporate its distinct qualities as compared to common carbon and alloy structural steels into the construction of structural components.
Stainless steel is known for being corrosion-resistant, but it can still rust or stain in certain environments with low oxygen levels, high salt content, or poor circulation. Stainless steel comes in a variety of grades and surface treatments to suit the demands of the application. Stainless steel is utilized in applications where both strength and corrosion resistance are required.
Stainless steel vs Carbon steel
Stainless steel contains more chromium than carbon steel. Carbon steel rusts quickly when left unprotected and in contact with air or moisture. The rust is alive, speeding up corrosion by producing more iron oxide. Because there is so much more iron oxide present, it tends to flake and fall away.
Stainless steels have enough chromium to create a passive film of chromium oxide, which prevents further surface corrosion by preventing oxygen diffusion to the steel surface and stopping corrosion from spreading into the metal’s internal structure. Because the steel and oxide ions are similar in size, they form a strong bond that is retained on the surface.
The use of stainless steel
Both practical and aesthetic aspects have contributed to the popularity of stainless steel in architecture. Stainless steel was fashionable during the art deco era. The most well-known example of this is the Chrysler Building in New York, with its iconic upper section. Large decorative panels and stainless steel equipment and furnishings are used at some eating areas and fast-food restaurants. The buildings maintain their original appearance because the material is durable.
