Stainless Steel

Stainless Steel was developed in the early 1900s and is a relative newcomer to the metals industry. It is made from scrap steel with a mixture of chromium and nickel as the main components.

There are five grades of stainless steel, but the two most common are austenitic (which is non-magnetic) and ferritic (which is magnetic).

Type 304 is non-magnetic, rust resistant and easily weldable. It is commonly used for kitchen equipment, and elevator cab interiors. There are two common types of finishes: mill finish also known as 2B, and #4 which comes with a polyurethane cover to protect the shine of the sheet.

Type 316 has a little bit more nickel and is commonly used for products that will be in contact with sea water, as well as pharmaceutical equipment.

Type 430 is magnetic and is used to made kitchen exhaust hoods, food service tables and utensils.