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Home > Products & Services > Stainless Steel Products Stainless SteelGRADES OF STAINLESS STEEL:Two of the most commonly used grades of Stainless Steel are Grade 304 and Grade 316 GRADE 304 has good corrosion resistance and is most commonly used for in-door applications. GRADE 316 has a higher level of corrosion resistance. The Grade 316 is often referred to as "marine grade" and typical applications include boat fittings and architectural components in exposed coastal locations and other salt water environments. STAINLESS STEEL MAINTENANCE:It is an often held belief that stainless steel is “stain free” and “maintenance free”. This however is not necessarily correct and all grades will require periodic cleaning. Stainless steel does suffer from localised corrosion and discolouration called Tea staining. Tea staining is a cosmetic problem and will not create structural problems with the stainless steel. Routine removal of grimeStainless steel holds its appearance best if it is washed regularly. When washing use soap or detergent or 1% ammonia solution in warm, low chloride water with cloths or soft brushes to avoid scratching the surface. NEVER USE LIQUIDS CONTAINING HYDROCHLORIC ACID. Table 1 from the ASSDA ‘Tea Staining’ Technical Bulletin provides a guide to the recommended frequency for cleaning exterior stainless steel. Recommended cleaning intervals for stainless steel wire rope & handrails
* Cleaning involves washing with potable, low chloride water or washing with a neutral detergent followed by rinsing with potable water. Grease, oily films and other organic contaminationOils and grease may be removed by alkaline formulations or hot water and detergents or, if necessary, by hydrocarbon solvents such as alcohol, acetone or thinners or eucalyptus oil. In all cases the surface should be rinsed with clean water and preferably dried. STAINLESS STEEL CORROSION:Both 304 and 316 have good to excellent resistance to corrosion. However various factors can occasionally affect their performance. PITTING CORROSION: Usually includes moderately high temperatures, high levels of chlorides (ie sea water) and acidic conditions. Pitting, once initiated, tends to grow. The effect can be isolated areas of corrosion or staining. Stains caused by contact corrosion can be fairly easily cleaned by using Scotchbrite pads or stainless steel cleaner. Do not use steel wool or any polishing or grinding tools contaminated with metal filings. MECHANICAL PROPERTIES(In particular reference to Breaking Strengths) Disclaimer: (1) The above information is only given as a guide or general information. If the information given is insufficient, or if you are not satisfied, or certain, we suggest you seek further advice from a professional metallurgist. (2) For safety, structural and strategic applications, independent engineering or specialist advice should be sought from the relevant authorities/experts. Based on this advice, our sales consultants can assist with the supply of rated fittings for these applications as recommended/nominated by your professional, qualified engineer. Under no circumstances is Keble’s Trading Pty Ltd or its staff authorized or qualified to make any recommendations whatsoever regarding design or selection of fittings for such applications. (3) Keble's Trading makes no recommendations or claims for the performance and mechanical properties of Stainless Steel and accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any unsatisfactory outcome, unsuitable application or installation of these products. (4) Keble’s Trading Pty Ltd makes no recommendations and takes no responsibility for the use of any fastening system or products used in the installation of any Balustrading and Handrail components. The responsibility of the design and choice of fastener for compliance to Aust Standard and relevant codes lies soley with the purchaser. Please consult appropriate authorities and or the advice of professional persons for information on correct design and installation techniques. (5) Product information contained in this website is intended to be used for reference only. Keble’s Trading Pty Ltd strongly recommend that you confirm all relevant details before ordering as information is subject to change without prior notice. If product dimensions are critical to your application, please contact us for assistance. |