When it comes to construction projects, the choice of material can take your project from broken to brawn.
Stainless steel is the go-to choice in contemporary construction. This is because it is durable, strong, and long-lasting, and resistant to environmental aggravators. However, with so many types littering the market, how do you isolate the one variant that is guaranteed to tick all the requisite boxes?
Understand the Key Stainless Steel Grades
- Austenitic Stainless Steel: Perhaps the most commonly used variant, this type offers unmatched corrosion resistance and standout weldability. It is ideal for buildings exposed to the elements, particularly those in moisture-rich environments, such as marine structures.
- Ferritic Stainless Steel: Even though this variant is relatively known for its stress corrosion cracking resistance, most construction experts claim it balances strength and oxidation resistance.
- Martensitic Stainless Steel: If you’re looking for a state-of-the-art stainless steel variant that offers high-strength and hardness levels, this is it. Construction professionals love it for the increased machinability and affordability. However, it is prone to corrosion damage.
- Duplex Stainless Steel: With a combination of austenitic and ferritic stainless steel properties, this type offers more strength and resistance than both put together. It is the preferred material for many arduous construction environments.
Corrosion Resistance
Perhaps it goes without saying that the number one factor in checking off your stainless steel checklist is its ability to ward off corrosion. This means that construction materials are prone to being exposed to corrosive triggers like moisture, temperature, and chemical abrasives. When you’re planning to start a construction project in an area notorious for its salt content or use of chemicals, it makes sense for you to go for a range of corrosion-proof, heat-resistant sheets of stainless steel. This is what makes it unbeatable for exterior building claddings.
Temperature Tolerance
Temperature tolerance is very important when you choose stainless steel materials for construction. Some types, like heat-resistant sheets, are specially designed to handle high temperatures without melting or putting the building in danger. So, if your project will mean exposure to high heat, it is necessary to choose heat-resistant sheets. This means the difference between construction supplies best suited for high-temperature environments and those that are not.
Weldability
Welding stainless steel isn’t always straightforward. While the hardest martensitic stainless steels pose special challenges due to their high carbon content, other grades like austenitic stainless steel can be easily welded. With the right grade, you could save time and money in construction.
When there is a need for multiple structures, go for a grade that is more weld-friendly and malleable, such as austenitic stainless steel. In addition to that, plate flanges should be chosen to make fitting and welding tasks an easy feat.
Application-Specific Requirements
No two construction projects are exactly the same, and you want your choice of stainless steel grade to align with the unique requirements. If you need plate flanges made of high-strength stainless steel to ensure stronger and impenetrable connections in heavy-duty applications, hard stainless steel is the optimal choice. On the other hand, in residential buildings and properties, lighter variants of stainless steel are used for decorative purposes.