Metal fabrication is a popular process in the manufacturing sector, and it requires an ideal material to make the whole process seamless. Choosing stainless steel for metal fabrication is what every experienced machinist will tell you. Why? Because stainless steel offers numerous benefits during the manufacturing process for any desired part. This article looks at the various benefits of stainless steel in metal fabrication.
Benefits of Stainless Steel for Metal Fabrication Projects
Most machinists believe in a misconception that stainless steel has a high initial cost and welding problems. But the advantages of stainless steel easily outweigh the drawbacks. Stainless steel works almost in every industry making it the most used material for custom steel parts. Let us check out the many benefits of stainless steel for metal fabrication:
Easier to work with
Using modern manufacturing methods allows it easier to cut, mould and manufacture stainless steel. It becomes a challenge when the fabricator is working with outdated equipment. We at MDA use state-of-the-art manufacturing methods to produce precision machined parts. Our machinists have plenty of experience and work according to the client’s requirements while keeping the project deadline in mind.
Corrosion Resistance and durability
The advantage of stainless steel over other materials like iron is being corrosion-resistant. If the industry requires rust-free equipment, choosing stainless steel material is the perfect solution. Stainless steel has plenty of grades to work for various industries. In the case of we elements, lower grades of stainless steel alloy work best. Higher grade alloy is suitable when used around acid and alkaline solutions.
Stainless steel is durable and choosing other metals for steel fabrication results in a high cost in the long run. Therefore, being durable, stainless steel provides long-term value. The same investment in other materials cannot provide the necessary results and much-needed durability.
Temperature Resistance
Stainless steel is well-known for its heat resistance, making it ideal for applications such as boilers, valves, feedwater heaters, and other heat exchangers that may get subjected to higher temperatures. Going with high chromium grades resists scaling and allows the material to withstand its properties at high temperatures.
Maintenance Free
Working with stainless steel has a long-term value that far outweighs the initial investment, which often scares off the uninitiated. The life cycle cost should always get considered when making a decision. Choosing a product that requires no maintenance, such as stainless steel, allows you to concentrate on creating a great process.
Recyclable
Machine shops are unaware of the impact industrial waste leaves on the environment. It is where stainless steel gets ahead. The material tops the list of North America’s most recycled materials over 60% of stainless steel gets recycled annually. The recycling efforts save almost 74% of the overall energy used in production from raw materials.
The industrial use of stainless steel metal fabrication
Steel because of its wide range of functionalities from industrial operations, and technological applications to automobile parts. Here are various industrial uses of fabricated stainless steel:
Medical industry
Stainless steel is apt for the medical industry. Stainless steel gets easily sterilized and is flexible enough. So, it can get formed into a variety of tools and equipment.
Parts fabricated: Surgical instruments, operating tables, MRI scanners, etc.
Transportation industry
Due to the strength of fabricated stainless steel and the many shapes, it can get formed. It is common in the transportation industry. It is ideal for aircraft, trains & railway cars, and automobiles.
Parts fabricated: Exhaust collectors, manifolds, castings, steel coils, and tray tables.
Energy industry
Stainless steel is the metal of choice in the energy industry because they work with high heat and toxic substances that can be corrosive. Stainless steel has extreme formability as it has a high strength-to-weight ratio which fits well with the energy industry.
Parts fabricated: Valves, pipes, storage tanks, power turbines, and transformers.
| Also Read: All About The Metal Machining & Its Benefits |
Final thoughts
When starting a new metal fabrication project, choosing the ideal material is critical to its success. Stainless steel has several properties that make it fit for metal fabrication and should get considered for any future custom fabrication project. Contact MDA’s expert team to learn more about stainless steel metal fabrication.