The success and durability of your projects will depend heavily upon the materials that you choose. Stainless steel has been a trusted metal for decades. Today, domestic raw steel production is 1,696,000 net tons, according to the American Iron and Steel Institute. This highly available metal will provide many benefits for your projects. Keep reading to learn more about stainless steel from a local metal supplier.

1. Anti-Corrosive

One of the main reasons industries rely so heavily on stainless steel is due to its resistance against corrosion. The danger of working with metal has always been the risk of rusting. Stainless steel is highly rust-resistant due to its chromium content. For products or parts that will be exposed to water, it’s imperative to have a high degree of corrosion resistance.

2. Heat Resistant

Another wonderful trait of stainless steel is the fact that it’s fire and heat-resistant as well. Stainless steel has an oxidation resistance even at high temps, so the material isn’t as susceptible to fire damage. For projects requiring heat exposure, this is a great option. Stainless steel is even more heat and fire-resistant than galvanized steel or aluminum.

3. Hygienic

One benefit of stainless steel that many people aren’t aware of is that it’s more sanitary than other materials. This material is very easy to clean and sanitize, so it’s better suited for some applications such as medical equipment. It has a smooth, non-porous surface, so dirt and bacteria can’t lodge on the surface. You’ll often see stainless steel used in commercial kitchens so that food prep can be conducted more safely. Other applications can be seen in hospitals, labs, and factories.

4. Tough

Another reason to choose stainless steel for your projects is because it’s extremely durable. This material is highly resistant to impactful forces. This material has low brittleness even at varying temperatures. It can keep its shape better in hot conditions and stay strong in cold conditions.

5. Sustainable

This material is also considered a sustainable material for fabrication. Since resource conservation is an important aspect of manufacturing and fabrication today, you should consider the fact that this material is easy to recycle, and most steel is in fact recycled.

These are just a handful of reasons to consider stainless steel for your next project. If you’re looking for metal services in your area, please contact SouthCo Metals today. We're the local metal supplier you can depend on for top-notch products. Our team of metal experts can help you find the right materials for your next project.