6 Misconceptions on Stainless Steel

Stainless Steel is one of the many wonders of the industrial industry. The glistening top of the Chrysler building in New York, the famous arch in St. Louis... your YETI drinking cup.... even the kitchen sink! Its applications are endless. Lets take a moment to dig just a little bit and cover the most common misconceptions about Stainless Steel. (Put your learning hats on!)

"Stainless Steel Doesn’t Rust"
This statement is true in MOST cases, but not all. Stainless steel resists corrosion better than most other metals because of a very thin, colorless passive layer that forms spontaneously on the surface to protect the metal below. If you're in a super corrosive environment or do not take the steps to protect your piece, rust can occur.

“Stainless Steel is not Magnetic”
Remember when stainless steel refrigerators became popular and everyone kind of lost it for a little bit about not being able to hang artwork on the fridge anymore? Some of the most common types of stainless steel aren’t magnetic. But some types are. Your Kitchen sink, for example, probably has magnetic properties. We aren't in the appliance business so I can't explain that conundrum to you, sorry. - Just know with such a versitle metal, the abilities and properties are versitle too.

“Stainless Steel is Expensive”
Stainless steels is more costly than other carbon steels, yes, but the extra performance of stainless steel more than pays for the difference. Some metals may be cheaper up front but require lengthy and costly upkeep later on. The cost of stainless in dollars per day for the life of the job will be much lower than some alternative metals.

“All Stainless Steels have the same Corrosion Resistance”
The surface finish and fabrication practice can have a major effect. The corrosion resistance of stainless steels mostly depends on their content of the alloying elements chromium and molybdenum, plus a few other factors, depending on the specific application. The surface finish and fabrication practice can have a major effect.

"Stainless Steel is not recycle friendly"
Steel is one of the most recycled materials on the planet. According to the American Iron and Steel Institute, approximately 88% of the world’s steel is recycled. Further, two out of three tons of new steel come from old steel. Stainless Steel = very green for the environment.

So there you have it. If you'd like more information on stainless steel facts, check out our other blog on Stainless Steel Finishes or view a easy to read chart on the different Guages of Stainless Steel.

If you have any other questions on stainless steel, we'd be happy to answer in the comments or you can contact us.

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