Why stainless steel is so important in our everyday lives

Stainless steel is an alloy of several different types of metal that, when combined, are stronger and more durable than when they are separate. By adding and subtracting various elements to stainless steel, engineers have been able to create many different varieties of the alloy, each with their own characteristics and uses.

Stainless steel is a versatile metal and can be used for many different things ranging from construction to kitchen equipment. Many different types of stainless steel grades are used in foodservice establishments, and each type has its own pros and cons. To make an informed decision when purchasing food grade stainless steel equipment, you should understand the major elements in the alloy, the different grading systems, and the main types of stainless steel.

When describing different types of food grade stainless steel and their properties, there are a few key terms and elements that come up regularly.  Here are some definitions of what those terms mean and what kind of effect those elements will have on the steel.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel is a durable and affordable metal that is used for a wide variety of purposes.  It’s strong, making it perfect for construction purposes, and its corrosion resistant, so it can last a long time without breaking or being replaced.

Corrosion

Corrosion describes the natural process where stainless steel breaks down into a more chemically stable form.  The most common and well-known form of corrosion is rust.  Stainless steel is inherently more resistant to corrosion than other metals but if not taken care of properly, it will eventually corrode.

Alloy

An alloy is a metal that is made by combining several types of metal together.  For example, stainless steel is not found naturally but it is made by combining iron, carbon, and various other metals.

Element

Element is a chemistry term that refers to atoms that have the same number of protons.  Elements are the most basic form of substances, and they are combined to form an alloy.  Some common elements you have heard of are oxygen, carbon, nitrogen, and iron.

Within the food service industry, there are many reasons why stainless steel is chosen as a fixture and in equipment.

Corrosion resistance

Stainless steel is especially resistant to corrosion and rusting compared to other metals which makes it perfect for use in the kitchen.  Food grade stainless steel is often used for kitchen equipment, which is costly to replace.  But, because most stainless steel grades are highly corrosion resistant, you won’t have to worry about replacing your equipment as frequently.

Strength

Food grade stainless steel is strong, and it’s an excellent material to use in heavy-duty equipment or in shelving for storage areas.

Ease of cleaning

Other materials, such as wood or plastic, have grooves or openings where bacteria can invade and grow.  Stainless steel is smooth and doesn’t provide a place for bacteria to hide, allowing you to clean them away easily, which is an essential benefit for food service.

Non-reactive surface

Stainless steel is a non-reactive metal, which means that you can use it to cook foods that are acidic like citrus, tomatoes, and vinegar.  Other metals, like aluminum and iron, are reactive and cooking acidic foods in these metals will affect the flavor and damage the surface of the metal.

Understanding just what stainless steel is, helps to understand how to take care of it.  For all your stainless steel cleaning needs, try Sheila Shine.  The trusted 3-in-1 stainless steel cleaner for over sixty years!

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