Stainless steel is known for its strength, versatility and smooth surface, it can be used widely across a range of engineering and manufacturing applications due to its corrosion and heat resistant qualities.
Stainless steel was developed by Harry Brearley in Sheffield, England, in 1913. He was trying to develop a new steel alloy for gun barrels when he discovered his new alloy did not rust and was very difficult to etch into. Brearley’s first stainless steels contained around 13% chromium. These properties were quickly commercially exploited in the manufacture of cutlery, for which Sheffield become globally renowned.
Worldwide demand for stainless steel is rising by around 5% per year, with current demand reaching around 20 million tonnes per year. Although Stainless grades are more expensive to buy, the strength, corrosion resistance, low maintenance and aesthetic appeal make the long term investment worthwhile.
There are many different types of stainless steel, but they are usually classified into four main types that are identified by their crystalline structure; austenitic, martensitic, duplex, and ferritic. metals4U stock 4 grades of stainless steel; grades 303, 304 and 316 being austenitic and ferritic 430 grade. As the four main types of stainless steel have different properties it is important to ensure you choose the correct type, with the most appropriate properties for your project.

Applied Industry’s :food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries in terms of safety and hygiene.