The Stainless Steel Story: An Accidental Discovery
Did you know that the discovery of stainless steel was a stroke of pure luck? This accidental discovery would change the fastener and manufacturing industry worldwide.
In 1913, an English scientist named Henry Brearley served as the lead researcher at Brown Firth Laboratories. One day he noticed that a discarded sample of chromium steel mysteriously remained rust-free after being exposed to the elements for an extended period. It should have been corroded by this time.
His observation led to the birth of what was initially termed "rustless steel" and eventually known as stainless steel. This new material’s extraordinary resistance to corrosion made it indispensable across various industries, from construction to healthcare.
Ideal for Marine Environments
Stainless steel may be most important in the marine industry. Its superior corrosion resistance makes fasteners far more durable in a saltwater environment than other materials. This property is due to the addition of chromium, which must constitute at least 12% of the steel’s composition for it to be classified as stainless. The chromium prevents rust by forming a thin layer of oxide on the surface.
The Marvel of Grades and Composition
However, not all stainless steel is created equal. For instance, the addition of molybdenum in grade 316 stainless steel makes it exceptionally corrosion resistant. This element enhances the steel’s resistance and makes it the material of choice for environments exposed to saltwater and other corrosive substances.
On the other hand, stainless steel is not completely infallible. It can rust in some situations. Under certain conditions, such as exposure to chlorides, even stainless steel can corrode. Additionally, a common issue with stainless steel fasteners is galling, where the threads of fasteners cold weld together, leading to seizure. Fortunately, this can be avoided by using lubricants or selecting the correct grade of stainless steel.
Practical Applications and Maintenance
While their non-corrosive property makes stainless steel fasteners a popular choice across various industries, its other benefits also play a role. The automotive industry, for instance, frequently uses them because of their strength and durability. In the food and beverage industry, the hygiene and ease of cleaning of stainless steel make it a preferred choice. Stainless steel fasteners are also crucial in construction, pharmaceuticals, and many other sectors where reliability and longevity are most important.
Maintaining the appearance and functionality of stainless steel fasteners involves simple care routines. Using mild soap and water for cleaning can keep them looking new without damaging the surface, and avoid using abrasive scrubbing and harsh chemicals like bleach.
The story of stainless steel from a lab accident to a crucial, indispensable material in modern engineering is nothing short of amazing. Whether you work within the food processing, healthcare or manufacturing industry, the advantages of stainless steel fasteners can significantly impact the performance and longevity of your projects.
