Due to practical features of Stainless steel, this metal is widely used in various industries. In this article, we intend to introduce a number of applications for stainless steel in various industries. There are about 150 different grades of stainless steel, of which 50 grade are most used.
1. Application of Stainless Steel in Architecture, building and construction
Engineering, building, and construction is a developing business sector as many modern buildings and structures use stainless steels for cladding, roofing, facades and veneers. Because of the corrosion resistance of stainless steel, this material is suitable for use in the facade of the building. The Chrysler Building in New York was one of the first buildings, that in its construction, stainless steel was used.
2. Application of Stainless Steel in Chemical, Processing, and Oil & Gas industries
The chemical processing and oil & gas industries compared to other industries, are the biggest users of Stainless steel. There are corrosion conditions in these industries because the temperature is high and very corrosive materials are used. Special grades of Stainless steel have been developed to have greater corrosion resistance at a broad range of different temperatures. These grades of Stainless steel are suitable for use in chemical processing and oil & gas industries. The chemical processing and oil & gas industries make a substantial market for stainless tanks, pipes, pumps and valves.
3. Application of Stainless Steel in Medical Applications of Stainless Steel (Surgical)
Martensitic stainless steel is extensive and specialized used in hospital equipment. Surgical tools and medical equipment are usually made of stainless steel. This is due to the tools which made of stainless steel are easily sterilized, have good corrosion resistance and remain sharp. Kitchens, examination rooms and hospital labs also use stainless steel equipment.
4. Application of Stainless Steel in Food Processing Industries
One of the uses of Stainless steels is in food processing industries. Various types of stainless steels are used for production, processing, and packaging in the food processing industries.
5. Application of Stainless Steel in Pharmaceutical Industries
Pharmaceuticals industry is one of the most important industries in which stainless steel is used. The most important reason that stainless steel was used in the pharmaceuticals industry is that’s resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel 1.4401 (AISI 316) is a widely used type of steel which extensively used in pharmaceutical plants.
6. Application of Stainless Steel in Cars
Ferritic stainless steel grades 430 and 434 are used in interior decoration of cars. Stainless steel grade 409 is a ferritic stainless steel with 11% chromium, which is used on the catalyst reactor plate for cars. This type of steel has the ability to withstand corrosive conditions and can withstand the corrosive salt and corrosive gases from combustion.
7. Application of Stainless Steel Power Plants
Stainless steel is a major ingredient in the production of power equipment such as gas turbines, power generation equipment using nuclear power and fossil fuels, fuel cells and solar panels. Martensitic stainless steels are used in gears and screws that require high strength and Austenitic and Ferritic stainless steels are used in components that are less stressed and require corrosion resistance.
8. Application of Stainless Steel in Agriculture
Fertilizers and agricultural sprays create corrosive conditions, and in this case, the use of austenitic stainless steel is an appropriate option. Although these equipment have a higher initial cost, but having a high lifespan (about 20 years) and less maintenance’s cost, makes use of them economical.