Addressing the Common Myths about Stainless Steel and Its Castings
Stainless steel is basically an iron alloy which has a combination of ?10.5% chromium. The presence of chromium leaves a layer of oxide on the steel surface, called the ‘passive layer’, leading to a resistance to corrosion; a feature that can be increased by putting in more chromium. Over the years, certain myths have become synonymous with stainless steel, some of which are not entirely correct. Discussed below are such misconceptions and the correctness thereof.
Debunking Misconceptions Related to Stainless Steel
- All of it is the Same
The first myth that goes along with stainless steel and its castings is that there is no variety to it. This is not true, as there are quite a few types of stainless steel to start with, like ferritic, martensitic, austenitic, etc. In addition to these types, there are features that stainless steel casting manufacturers in West Bengal add to their products so that they can be strong, heat-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and have variable magnetic properties.
- It is Expensive
While it is true that stainless steel is more expensive when compared to carbon steel, the fact also needs to be remembered that the former has extra alloys. But when you take into consideration the benefits that come with stainless steel, you will realise that you are actually saving money. Additionally, staying with the comparison to carbon steel, it has to be painted over to ensure that it does not get corroded. In the case of stainless steel, there is no such requirement.
- It Does not Rust
There is quite a bit of truth in the fact stainless steel does, in fact, not rust. But it also needs to be remembered that in some aggressive settings, like in places with high levels of salinity in the air, even stainless steel can begin to show signs of rust over time. So, this means that stainless steel can begin to rust near beaches and other areas near the sea.
As you can see, the myths and misconceptions that have come to associate themselves with stainless steel are not all correct.
