Stainless Steel Machining Offers Many Benefits

Many machine shops offer a variety of services and work with more than one kind of material. However, a lot of shops avoid stainless steel machining because it is not easy and takes special equipment and experience. Yet, when you partner with a trusted machine shop known for working with stainless steel, you enjoy a lot of benefits.

Rust

Rust is one of the biggest enemies of steel. Steel can begin to rust by just sitting outdoors. Over time, rust weakens steel and can completely destroy it if left untreated. You can paint steel to protect it, but the best way to enjoy the benefits of steel with corrosion protection is to use stainless steel.

Hygiene

Many metals are not hygienic, nor can they maintain cleanliness for a long period of time. Stainless steel 304 is one of the most hygienic metals you can use because it is nonporous. When a metal is nonporous, bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants cannot penetrate. You only need to wash it off, and it stays clean for a long time. This is why you see many tanks and equipment in the food and beverage industry made from 304 alloy.

Strength

Few things are as hard and tough as steel. Yet, when you work with an alloy like 304, you have something with the strength of steel which can resist rust and corrosion. Its strength to weight ratio is impressive.

Other Benefits

304 and other grades like 316 lend themselves well to fabrication. They are not hard to weld, and they resist damage from impact. They are basically maintenance-free because you never need to paint or finish them. However, stainless steel machining can be difficult if you do not have the right people and equipment for the task. This is why many shops turn to services experienced with materials like 304 and 316 alloys.