Stainless steel, known scientifically as “Ferrous Chromium Corrosion-Resisting Steel”, has been used for centuries and is now more popular than ever. The primary component—chromium—gives this alloy its “stainless” quality, meaning it offers protection from corrosion in a wide variety of environmental conditions.
The alloys used in stainless steel include higher levels of chromium, nickel and molybdenum. It is this combination of materials that gives stainless steel its extraordinary properties — it’s strong, durable, easy to fabricate and versatile.
Stainless steel was first developed in the early 19th century, but it wasn’t until the 1920s that its corrosion-resistant properties began to be appreciated and put to good use. By the 1950s it had become one of the most popular materials used in cutlery, cookware, and architectural products, and its popularity has continued to grow ever since.
Today, stainless steel is used in almost every industry and has become an indispensible material in modern life. Common applications include architecture, kitchens, catering operations, transport, fuel tanks, tools, pipes, and medical equipment.
The durability and corrosion resistance of stainless steel make it ideal for many architectural and exterior applications. One of the most trusted and resilient products made today, it can withstand the effects of temperature and humidity, preventing any tarnishing and discoloration for many years to come. For this reason, it’s used on buildings and monuments, bridges, and other structures around the world.
In addition to its architectural properties, stainless steel is also used in kitchens and catering operations. Its water and heat resistance means it offers unparalleled performance for pots, pans, utensils, and other items that come into contact with food. It’s also non-porous, meaning it won’t absorb food particles and odors, and is easily cleaned and maintained, making it the perfect choice for professional chefs and home cooks alike.
These qualities are also found in the wide variety of tools made with stainless steel. These items are strong, highly durable, and resistant to corrosion, making them a favorite choice both for professionals and DIYers.
Stainless steel is also thought of as a “green” material because, in addition to its durability and reusability, it contains a high percentage of recycled material. This, coupled with its long life-span, make it a smart, sustainable choice.
The outstanding properties of stainless steel make it the perfect material for an almost limitless range of applications. Its ability to withstand the effects of weather and corrosion, coupled with its non-porous properties and low maintenance costs, make it the material of choice for architects, caterers, and handymen alike. Put simply, for a host of applications, there is no better choice than stainless steel.