Durability is a very important issue when choosing metal products. This alone makes stainless steel a popular choice for a wide range of applications. However, stainless steel is not a panacea. Proper maintenance is an important part of maximizing your investment. Failure to maintain stainless steel can result in a range of effects, from unsightly staining or discoloration to long-term damage and structural instability. Fortunately, stainless steel is easy to maintain.
CONSIDERING MAINTENANCE FROM THE START
There are a few considerations you can keep in mind during the design and installation phases to help reduce maintenance issues over time.
Note electrolytes While stainless steel works well with different metals, you may have problems in wet conditions.
If not properly grounded, moisture can create an electrolytic cell that greatly accelerates degradation and corrosion.
If possible, a plan to avoid this will reduce the need to inspect and maintain stainless steel, especially for smaller items such as fasteners, hinges and handles.
If possible, you should consider passivating or waxing after installation.
You can even consider both.
Passivation helps remove free iron and other contaminants that may be exposed to the environment through handling, manufacturing or installation.
The wax adds a layer of protection and further improves the passivation layer's performance on your stainless steel. This can also help reduce other maintenance requirements if used regularly.
One of the best ways to clean stainless steel is to use lots of warm water. Using stainless steel in well-drained areas can help speed up the maintenance process, especially in food preparation environments. Using a hose to flush the tank, surfaces and other stainless steel items instead of using a bucket can greatly reduce time costs.