5 Facts About Stainless Steel That May Surprise You

Steel is one of the most durable and versatile construction materials available. Not only does steel form the framework for most buildings you pass each day, but steel also makes up many railings you may lean on and benches where you may rest.

A steel gate and fence can protect your property from intruders and beautify your main entrance. Outdoor steel railings help ensure that your employees and patrons can safely navigate your property.

In this blog, we cover the basic design and maintenance steps needed to get the most out of these commercial steel structures.

Order New Steel Structures From an Experienced Fabricator

On most commercial properties, you need custom-fabricated steel structures to work with the existing architecture and landscaping. To ensure that you get a high-quality finished product, work with an expert.

An experienced fabricator can help you design, produce and install steel structures that will last longer and better suit your property.

Decide on a Coated Steel for Maximum Durability Over Time

Steel comes in many varieties. For a railing or architectural gate, you most likely want to opt for a powder coated or galvanized steel. These steels have more weather resistance and are less likely to corrode over time.

Consult with your fabricator to see what he or she recommends for your location, especially based on local weather conditions. For example, if your property is located in a wetter climate, you may need a stronger coating to protect the steel’s surface.

Have Your Steel Structure Inspected Annually

Once your steel structure has been properly installed, schedule an annual inspection. During the first few years, you may feel comfortable visually assessing the railing or gate yourself and calling a steel expert if you notice a problem.

However, as your structure ages, have a knowledgeable expert check the entire length of rail or fence at least once per year for any issues.

Keep the Area Around the Structure Clear of Debris

Add clearing debris to your usual landscaping routine, especially if your steel structure includes a gate. Overgrown plants or unruly brush piles can make your property seem dingy and can impact the function of your gate.

Additionally, debris that piles up near fences and railings often provides a habitat for pests that could weaken structure fasteners or leave damaging surface scratches.

Check for Rust and Scratches Regularly

While coated steel is highly durable, deep scratches can expose the raw steel under the top coating. Raw steel is much more susceptible to rust.

To prevent structural damage, check for scratches and chips regularly. Also keep an eye out for any developing rust on your steel structure.

Clean and Repair Damage as Needed

If you notice any damage or rust when you look over your railing or fence, call in a professional. A contractor can refinish any weakened sections to reduce the risk of corrosion.

If you choose to, you can begin to clear away rust while waiting for an expert’s help. Simply gently scrub the affected surface with a strong industrial brush. You can also use gentle soap and water to clear away dirt.

Once you finish brushing and/or washing, wipe down the area with a towel.

Be sure to dry the metal completely to avoid any moisture intrusion that could contribute to rust in the future.

Follow these guidelines to ensure that you erect strong steel structures and enable those structures to last for years to come.

Need a new fence, gate or railing? Or need to repair an existing steel structure?

Work with A.J.C. Electrical Service Pty Ltd. We provide a range of custom metal fabrication options suited to the needs of commercial property owners in any industry.

  Most people have heard of stainless steel at some point in their lives. They have likely seen this material used in a wide variety of products, from kitchenware to medical instruments, yet few realize why so many designers prefer this material to others.

  If you're looking for a strong, versatile material, consider the following benefits of stainless steel.

    Corrosion-Resistant

  One of the most valuable assets of stainless steel is its resistance to corrosion. Lower grades of stainless steel can withstand corrosion in water environments and basic atmospheric conditions. And higher grades of stainless steel can withstand corrosion caused by acid and alkaline solutions.

  Stainless steel offers this high resistance to corrosion due to its layer of chromium oxide. This protective layer makes stainless steel ideal for industrial plants or hospitals that require a corrosionresistant metal.

    Strong

  Certain high-strength grades of stainless steel create an impressive strength-to-weight ratio compared with other materials. Stainless steel can resist chemical damage, corrosion and heat damage even when it's in a thin state.

  Manufacturers will often add carbon to certain stainless steel grades to improve strength. These carbon and stainless steel compounds are ideal for making cutlery, tools and razor blades.

  When manufacturers use cold-work hardening techniques, they can reduce the stainless steel's weight and thickness. On the contrary, when manufacturers use heat to harden the stainless steel material, they can increase its strength. The options of both hot and cold hardening techniques for austenitic grades of stainless steel prove the material's strength compared with other conventional materials.

    Attractive

  Many consumers prefer stainless steel's shiny, smooth surface. For those who want a different look, you can add other surface finishes to stainless steel as well. Its aesthetic makes stainless steel ideal for a variety of products that require both attractiveness and strength.

  Additionally, owners of stainless steel don't have to worry about this material rusting, fading or staining over time. This material nearly always maintains its colour and beauty. Stainless steel can also resist many types of blemishes, including fingerprints, scuff marks and smudges. If you need to ensure your stainless steel's cleanliness, you can even apply a protective cleaner to maintain the shiny, smooth surface.

  Because consumers find stainless steel so easy to maintain, they can keep their products looking like new with ease for many years.

    Hygienic

  Another benefit of stainless steel is how easy it is to clean. Many hospitals, pharmaceutical facilities and kitchens rely on this material because they need a completely hygienic atmosphere. Fortunately, stainless steel doesn't absorb germs, making it ideal for a sanitary environment.

    Versatile

  Nearly all stainless steel can be fabricated, machined, cut and welded as needed. This versatility gives manufacturers the opportunity to mould the material into many different shapes for different uses, including the following:

•     Appliances
  
•     Building materials
  
•     Cookware
  
•     Hardware
  
•     Sheets
  
•     Skyscrapers
  
•     Surgical instruments
  
•     Tubes
  
•     Wires
  

  In fact, it's difficult to think of a place you can't find stainless steel. The material's resistance to corrosion, low maintenance, strength-weight ratio and aesthetic features make it a preferred material for many commercial uses.

    Eco-Friendly

  Finally, stainless steel is completely recyclable, so you can feel good knowing that you're promoting a healthier planet. If you ever need to retire stainless steel from a worn-out or damaged product, find a metal recycling plant to dispose of the unneeded material.

    Choose Stainless Steel for Your Next Project

  The benefits listed above make stainless steel one of the most preferred materials in the industry. The next time you'd like to create a product that lasts, be it hospital equipment or handrails, consider stainless steel. Contact a stainless steel specialist to discuss your next project.

  When you hear the word 'aluminum,' you may think of soda cans or other food and beverage containers. But the uses of aluminum extend far beyond food packaging.

  In a previous blog, 'The Advantages of Stainless Steel,' we introduced you to one of the most commonly used construction and manufacturing materials currently available. In this blog, we discuss fabricated aluminum, which represents one of the only materials advantageous enough to compete with stainless steel in some applications.

  Beneficial characteristics of fabricated aluminum include the following.

    Affordable

  Aluminum represents one of the least expensive metals available that is still strong enough for heavy-duty applications. Aluminum often provides the most affordable option for building materials, electrical components and machinery enclosures.

  Additionally, most aluminum requires virtually no maintenance, which allows it to stay inexpensive over time.

    Durable

  Aluminum has a high strength-to-weight ratio. This characteristic means that even thin aluminum panels can withstand high amounts of force over significant periods of time.

  For example, aluminum roofs can last as long as 35 years. In other applications, aluminum can last even longer.

    Flexible

  Many industrial metals, including steel, have high amounts of rigidity. While this quality provides the stability necessary for some projects, inflexibility limits the shaping capabilities of these metals.

  Aluminum is highly flexible, which means it's easier to bend and weld into shape. This characteristic makes aluminum ideal for small and structurally complex components.

    Highly Conductive

  Aluminum conducts both heat and electricity well. This conductivity explains why you frequently see aluminum used in heating and cooling units, as well as in electrical applications.

  Aluminum can even be found in the tiny components of mainframe computers and video systems.

    Lightweight

  Aluminum doesn't just have a high strength-to-weight ratio-it also weighs less overall than most other building materials. In fact, aluminum items can weigh as much as two thirds less than their stainless steel counterparts.

  This quality makes aluminum easy to transport and install. Additionally, aluminum's lightweight nature puts less stress on structures over time than other metals.

    Non-magnetic

  Many commonly used metals, including some kinds of steel, have magnetic properties. Aluminum, however, is completely non-magnetic. This property makes aluminum an essential part of many electrical applications.

  For example, manufacturers often use aluminum to encase braided wires and other sensitive system components.

    Recyclable and Non-toxic

  Like stainless steel, aluminum is 100% recyclable. In fact, recycling aluminum conserves as much as 90% of the energy required to manufacture new aluminum, which makes it one of the most eco-friendly options available.

  Additionally, aluminum emits no toxins and has no toxic properties. These combined characteristics make aluminum a highly sustainable materials choice.

    Reflective

  When it comes down to aesthetics alone, many builders and manufacturers choose aluminum over other metal options. Aluminum's surface accommodates a wide variety of finishes, which makes it ideal for the outermost layer of machinery and construction.

  Aluminum can even undergo polishing to make it beautifully reflective.

    Resistant to Corrosion

  Like stainless steel, aluminum has high resistance to corrosion. Fabricated aluminum is completely resistant to rust, unlike most other metals.

  With proper finishing and routine maintenance, high-quality aluminum can also withstand most other common forms of corrosion.

    Resistant to Low Temperatures

  While aluminum is subject to more expansion than steel when exposed to high temperatures, aluminum resists low temperatures extremely well. Aluminum's ability to withstand the cold makes it ideal for components and enclosures for condensers, air conditioners and even nuclear reactors.

  When you need a metal component for new construction, equipment or industry accessories, stainless steel and aluminum may both represent viable options. Consider the characteristics listed above and consult with your trusted metal fabrication expert to decide which metal best suits your needs.

  Laser engraving represents one of the most versatile and accessible forms of marking available. For this reason, contractors, industrial manufacturers, site managers and even homeowners use this process for applications in a variety of industries.

  Even if you don't work in a commercial or industrial setting, you've probably seen laser engraved signs, mementoes or awards.

  In this blog, we discuss the five most common applications of laser engraving and when you might want to hire a professional to provide these services.

    1. Awards and Trophies

  Laser engraving creates clean, easily legible, shaped carvings directly onto a surface. This feature makes this engraving method preferable to paint, stain or emboss.

  Most award and trophy makers rely on laser engraving for an array of materials, such as:

•     Glass
  
•     Metal
  
•     Wood
  

  Additionally, many types of laser engravers can cut shapes into sturdy rubber to create custom stamps. These stamps work well for award certificates, as well as mass signatures, letterheads and other decorative markings.

    2. Barcode Creation

  You see a lot of items with barcodes on them, from your weekly groceries to your industrial equipment components. Most barcodes you encounter are simply printed on paper or directly onto the item. However, items with specific characteristics won't take these standard barcodes.

  Engravers cut barcodes directly into these items to avoid problems with any of the following characteristics:

•     Adhesive-resistant surfaces
  
•     Extremely large items
  
•     Heavy duty use which would wear down a standard barcode
  

  In addition to barcodes consisting of lines of several different weights, engravers may cut QR codes, unique identification markers or similar markers onto these items.

    3. Decorative or Commemorative Annotations

  If you have purchased fine jewellery for someone special in your life, you've likely considered engraving a date or phrase into the surface. Many retailers offer the options of including a decorative or commemorative annotation on a gift.

  You may decide to laser engrave any of the following gift types:

•     Fine jewellery or watches
  
•     Glassware or table settings
  
•     Party favours, such as keychains or bottle openers
  

  These engravings add a personal touch to otherwise ordinary gifts.

    4. Medical and Electronic Components

  Medical and electronic parts require easy and precise identification, especially during high-stress moments. To ensure these parts stay identifiable, many manufacturers choose to mark them using laser engraving.

  Reasons to mark these components via engraving include:

•     Easy legibility, even at small sizes
  
•     Lettering that won't rub off
  
•     Simple mass marking
  

  The laser engraving used on medical and electronic components, especially on small or delicate parts, is often shallower than that used on other items.

    5. Signage

  Perhaps the most common use of laser engraving is in durable signage. The benefits of engraving maps, directions and other sign contents rather than painting or printing them, are myriad.

  Some reasons sites choose engraving over other signage methods include:

•     Durability, even in difficult environments where the sign may become wet or worn
  
•     Increased legibility, due to the depth of the lettering
  
•     Rapid production, which is often important in temporary construction areas and similar sites
  

  Most industrial contractors and fabricators who design signage cut individual parts using laser-based equipment. They may even create important manufacturing tools and rely on a computer numerical control system (CNC).

  CNC systems use precise, automated cutting and engraving equipment to produce one-off items that fit a specific criteria or to mass produce industrial components.

  Consult with a trusted professional metal fabrication team to determine if you need the accuracy and precise detail offered by CNC equipment for your project.

  Whether you want to create the perfect, personalised gift or you need a clear, durable way to create signage for your job site, consider laser engraving.

  After you invest in a metal product, you want it to keep its original shine for as long as possible. Like most materials, metal products can get stains and smudges. However, you can keep your metal looking like new by using some simple cleaning methods, such as those we discuss below.

    Aluminium

  You can find aluminium in a variety of products including siding, paint, appliances, cans and blinds. Almost all aluminium products can become dull over time as layers of aluminium oxide form on the metal's surface.

  You can easily remove the aluminium oxide with soapy water or aluminium cleaner. However, avoid using baking soda on aluminium products, as it will likely spoil the metal. If you prefer a homemade solution, try mixing cream of tartar with white vinegar.

    Cast Iron

  Most people use cast iron products, such as Dutch ovens for cooking purposes. One of the best ways to clean cast iron is with salt and cooking oil. Avoid using water on these products as the moisture can reduce the product's ability to preserve the flavour of foods when you cook.

  If you clean cast iron properly, you can keep it sanitary and in good condition. Rust commonly corrodes cast iron, so regularly clean these products to avoid rust.

    Stainless Steel

  Stainless steel is one of the most hygienic metals available. However, the term 'stainless' doesn't imply that this metal cannot become dirty. Even stainless steel can dull over time and get dirty from oily smudges.

  Additionally, stainless steel can corrode, but it is more resistant to stains and corrosion if kept clean.

  You can clean stainless steel with a mild cleaner and fresh water. You can also use olive oil, vinegar and club soda to remove streaks on stainless-steel surfaces. As a rule of thumb, you can use most glass cleaners on stainless steel products.

  If you need to clean more severe forms of food residue, grease, soap scum or watermarks, you may need a specialised cleaning product.

    Chrome

  Chrome is found on products like car rims, bike parts, pans and bumpers. You can best clean chrome products with soap and water or vinegar. Vinegar has just enough acidity to remove gunk and tarnish from chrome surfaces without corroding them. If you notice rust on your chrome product, use aluminium foil and vinegar to gently rub the rust off of the metal surface.

    Copper

  Copper can tarnish quickly if it's cleaned with harsh chemicals. While tarnish doesn't necessarily cause damage to a product, it does cause copper to lose its shine.

  A safer way to clean copper is to apply commercial copper-cleaning products. You can also remove dirt and smudges from copper by gently rubbing ketchup or salted lemon halves onto the surface.

    Silver

  Many decorations and cookware products are made with silver. Silver gives products an impressive, luxurious shine. Many people wear silver jewellery for this same reason.

  You usually don't have to worry about cleaning silver jewellery. Often, simple contact with skin will keep silver clean. However, silver that is placed into storage for extended periods of time will often dull or tarnish.

  Along with commercial cleaners, you can also clean silver with generic toothpaste. The gritty, non-gel toothpaste tends to polish silver better than gel toothpaste.

  Keep in mind that metals may not be as resilient as you expect them to be. Avoid cleaning methods that scratch or corrode the metal. You can test unfamiliar or homemade cleaning product on metals by applying a small amount to an inconspicuous, small area. If the solution doesn't harm the metal, apply the cleaner to the rest of the product.

  Use these tips to keep your metal products clean and shiny. If you're unsure about which cleaning product to use, consult the manufacturer or vendor for recommended cleaning solutions.