5 Things To Consider When Buying Stainless Steel Products

Stainless Steel Products

Stainless steel is a versatile material. It refers to a combination of iron-based compounds with a minimum chromium content of 10.5%. The corrosion resistance of stainless steel is due to its combination with chromium. Chromium forms a delicate coating on steel called a "passive layer". This passive layer is the key to protecting against rust and other damages.

Therefore, while choosing stainless products, you need to be certain about the quality of the steel. Whether you're a business or a DIY-er, FastMetals has stainless steel stock for sale to meet your needs.

Here are five things to consider when buying stainless steel products

1. Should Be Competent Steel Supplier

When choosing a stainless steel product, always choose a competent steel supplier as they are professional and can answer any questions you may have regarding their equipment. In addition, they have a team of experts who are familiar with many processes involved in steel production, such as galvanization, heat treatment, and metal fabrication. If you do not have much experience with this material, the supplier helps you provide recommendations for the best product.

2. Should Be Machined

When choosing stainless steel, there are a few factors you need to consider if you need machining. First, most stainless steel products can be machined, while some require much labor to make. As a result, the machining process must be tuned to work at speeds that help reduce this problem and put the machine tools to good use.

3. Should Be Corrosion Resistance

Stainless steel is generally chosen for corrosion resistance, but it is essential to understand that different products have different corrosion resistance levels. Due to their high chromium content, asbestos stainless steels have excellent corrosion resistance. Ferritic and martensitic stainless steels are often less expensive than austenitic stainless steels. It is because they contain less nickel and, in some cases, chromium, resulting in reduced corrosion resistance. The use of duplex stainless steel can prevent stress corrosion in austenitic stainless steel.

4. Able To Be Welded Easily

Welding stainless steel is not like welding carbon steel, and it can result in intergranular corrosion, hot cracking, and stress corrosion cracking. However, the austenitic type of stainless steel is often the most weldable. Also, Duplex stainless steel and ferritic stainless steel are both weldable.

Welding is not recommended for martensitic stainless steel. However, some martensitic stainless steel grades with low carbon content can be welded. When welding rain hardens stainless steel, it is essential to keep in mind that the inherent mechanical properties of the material are not compromised.

5. Cost And Availability

The most expensive product is high performance austenitic stainless steel. However, it is the most valuable. When it comes to stainless steel products, you want the most value for your money. Therefore, choose more corrosion-resistant products to save money on maintenance, replacement and downtime. Experiment with multiple levels until you discover something that offers the best price and the most extended service.

When buying stainless steel, make sure it meets or exceeds the needs of the industry. Stainless steel must also withstand high strength and high impact applications in complex systems. Finally, to develop a cost-effective solution, you need to have a clear picture of the purpose of using the stainless steel product.