Top-Quality Stainless-Steel Fabrication in Southside

304 contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It is generally used in most domestic and commercial use. 316 contains 16% chromium, 10% nickel and 2% molybdenum. The molybdenum is added to help resist corrosion to chlorides (like sea water and de-icing salts). It is generally used for marine products or chemical properties and costs slightly higher. 

Stainless-steel does not rust in the same way that regular stainless-steel rusts. Corrosion is generally caused by contaminants settling on the surface of the stainless-steel. 

Maintenance of stainless-steel varies with different applications. Interior stainless-steel in benches, shower trays and hand basins may require general cleaning on a day-to-day basis to maintain hygiene standards. Simply wash the stainless-steel with warm water and detergent. Ensure that you always wipe in the direction of the grain and remove all traces of detergent. Dry the stainless-steel with a soft cloth or stainless wipe.

Exterior stainless-steel, such as that used in handrails, sculptures, downpipes, and signage, requires general cleaning to remove pollution, road grime or salt build-up due to close proximity to the sea. To clean it, simply wash with warm water and detergent, always wipe in the direction of the grain, and remove all traces of detergent. Dry it with a soft cloth or stainless wipe. 

Working environments can also create more aggressive conditions, such as the warm, high-humidity atmosphere above indoor swimming pools. These environments can increase the speed of corrosion; therefore, stainless-steel requires more frequent maintenance.

There are two main finishes on stainless-steel. 

Satin finish: this is the most commonly available material used domestically and commercially and has a grain running the length of the sheet. This finish is called No: 4 brushed finish and is commonly found on domestic cooktops, fridges, internal handrails, commercial kitchen decks, and equipment.

Mirror finish: this finish gives additional protection in marine environments and is also known as No: 8 or bright polish finish. This finish is also used for fine furniture or decorative work that requires the extra impact that the mirror finish gives.

Even though stainless-steel has an enviable reputation as an extremely durable material, its surface can still become discoloured over time. Known as 'tea staining', this discolouration does not affect the structural integrity of the metal and is normally caused by excessive salt deposits on external stainless-steel applications.

Clean the stainless-steel with soap or mild neutral detergent and warm water. Follow this with a clean, cold water rinse to keep your stainless-steel in peak condition.

Never use stainless-steel wool on any stainless-steel surface as it will scratch it and leave behind carbon stainless-steel fragments, which will later rust the surface. Do not use concentrated bleach or hydrochloric acid-based cleaners on or around your stainless-steel products. Never use any abrasive scourers on mirror-finish stainless-steel. Always test in a discreet place when using any cleaning product for the first time.