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STAINLESS STEEL IS FREQUENTLY USED for custom architectural metal fabrication projects. Stainless steel is a non-ferrous, non-corrosive, iron-based metal, which is mixed with nickel. It is an alloy of iron that contains more than 10% chromium. It is widely used in food service and food processing industries for sanitary purposes. Stainless steel is also ideal for marine, medical, and decorative applications due to its corrosion resistance. Our customers request stainless steel for decorative work in many types of organizations.
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TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Hospitals, kitchens, food-service equipment, pharmaceutical tables,
cabinetry, decorative applications, and anything which requires NSF approval. It is often used in architectural applications when a long-lasting high finish product is required such as furniture trim.
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The Nickel Institute, Specialty Steel Industry of North America (SSINA), and other industry organizations have funded research and developed literature and websites to promote the sustainability of stainless steel:
- RECYCLABILITY - all stainless steels are highly recyclable and 300 series stainless steels (e.g. 304, 316) produced in North America contain 75-85% recycled content
- HIGH CORROSION RESISTANCE - if an appropriate stainless steel and finish are selected, it can provide years of stain-free performance in demanding environments. Even if light staining occurs, the finish can usually be restored to its original appearance with light, environmentally friendly cleaning. Perforation or structural failure is unlikely to occur over the building life.
- EXTREMELY LOW ROOF RUN-OFF RATES - low corrosion rates mean that fish, plants and the environment don't get harmed; it is also ideal for capturing and reusing rain water
- LONG SERVICE LIFE - if properly selected and maintained, it could outlast the life of the building or structure and even be reused on another project; this equates to less pollution and less waste of natural resources
- RECAPTURE RATE - over 80% of the stainless steel used in construction is recycled at the end of its service life; it can be used to make the same stainless steel without downcycling of applications or mechanical properties
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ADVANTAGES
- Fire and heat resistance allowing it to resist scaling and retain strength at high temperatures
- Hygienic, non-porous, surface coupled with easy cleaning ability makes it the primary choice for applications which require strict hygiene control, such as hospitals, kitchens, and other food processing plants
- Bright, modern and attractive appearance
- Easily maintained surface making it an easy choice for applications demanding an attractive surface at all times
- Strength-to-weight advantage that allows it to be used with a reduced material thickness over conventional grades, often times generating cost savings
- Ease of fabrication due to the use of modern steel-making techniques that allow stainless steel to be cut, machined, fabricated, welded, and formed, as readily as traditional steels
- Resistance to impact even at extreme temperature variations
- Long-term value created by its extended life cycle often yields the least expensive material option
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DISADVANTAGES
- High cost, especially when considered as the initial expense
- Difficulty in fabricating; when attempting to fabricate stainless steel without using the highest technology machines and proper techniques, it can be a difficult metal to handle
- Difficulty in welding due to its fast dissipation of heat which can also produce ruined pieces or high scrap costs
- High cost of final polishing and finishing
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