302/302HQ/304/18-8 Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a family of iron-based alloys that contain a minimum of approximately 11% chromium, a composition that prevents the iron from rusting) as well as providing heat resistant properties.Different types of stainless steel include the elements carbon (from 0.03% to greater than 1.00%), nitrogen, aluminum, silicon, sulfur, titanium, nickel, copper, selenium, niobium, and molybdenum).Specific types of stainless steel are often designated by a three digit number, e.g., 304 stainless. The resistance to ferric oxide formation results from the presence of the chromium in the alloy – specifically, from the propensity of the exposed chromium atoms to form an "invisible and adherent chromium-rich oxide film" that displays the further characteristic of being able to self-heal (reform the film in the presence of atmospheric oxygen, after its being disturbed). Resistance to corrosion and staining, low maintenance, and familiar luster make stainless steel an ideal material for many applications where both the strength of steel and corrosion resistance are required. Stainless Steel weld studs can be used in cookware, cutlery, surgical instruments, major appliances, construction material in large buildings, industrial equipment (e.g., in paper mills, chemical plants, water treatment), and storage tanks and tankers for chemicals and food products. The corrosion resistance, the ease with which the material can be steam-cleaned and sterilized, and absence of the need for surface coatings have prompted the use of stainless steel in kitchens and food processing plants.