Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the questions that we frequently get asked.
- What Is Stainless Steel?
- When was stainless steel discovered?
- What is stainless steel used for?
- Does stainless steel corrode?
- What forms of corrosion can occur in stainless steels?
- How many types of stainless steel are there?
- What are the correct standards for stainless steel?
- Is stainless steel non-magnetic?
- Can I use stainless steel at low temperatures?
- Can I use stainless steel at high temperatures?
- What surface finishes are available on stainless steels?
- How do I choose which stainless steel to use?
- What is 'multiple certification'?
What is stainless steel used for?
Stainless steels of various kinds are used in thousands of applications. The following gives a flavour of the full range:
Domestic – cutlery, sinks, saucepans, washing machine drums, microwave oven liners, razor blades
Architectural/Civil Engineering – cladding, handrails, door and window fittings, street furniture, structural sections, reinforcement bar, lighting columns, lintels, masonry supports
Transport – exhaust systems, car trim/grilles, road tankers, ship containers, ships chemical tankers, refuse vehicles
Chemical/Pharmaceutical – pressure vessels, process piping.
Oil and Gas – platform accommodation, cable trays, subsea pipelines.
Medical – Surgical instruments, surgical implants, MRI scanners.
Food and Drink – Catering equipment, brewing, distilling, food processing.
Water – Water and sewage treatment, water tubing, hot water tanks.
General – springs, fasteners (bolts, nuts and washers), wire.