Are you looking for a metal that will last without rusting through? Are you looking for a metal that will create a strong final product so that your company can produce quality products? If you answered yes to any of these questions then you need to look into stainless steel (SS). Stainless steel is steel that contains chromium, allowing the steel to resist both rust and tarnish. That makes it the perfect foundation for any project including refrigerators, grills, pots and pans, and many more.
But how can you find a company that takes care of the product, so that you stay safe when it comes to investing in stainless steel? San Francisco has many SS options, whether it is for supply or for fabrication, so that all of your needs are met.
Processes for SS Fabrication
Stainless steel has many different processes when it comes to fabrication, including machining, welding, and work hardening. Each process had its pros and cons. Understanding each process will allow you to choose what is best for your stainless steel.
Machining is the process of drilling, milling, turning, and threading SS. While there is a possibility of chipping with machining, there are special processes that help to solve this problem while still incorporating the original process. Below are tips to look for when looking for the right company to complete machining on your stainless steel.
- Choose tools that limit vibrations. This way the steel will be less stressed, avoiding as much chipping as possible.
- Large tools help to spread the heat out rather than focusing it in one specific area.
- Coolants and lubricants should be applied to the equipment.
- Light, consistent cuts should be used to alleviate stress on the metal.
Welding can typically be used on all types of stainless steel. However, metals that have a higher nickel content will have improved strength, corrosion resistance, and ductility. When looking into specific SS options for welding, look out for metals that are thick and that are prone to cracking.
Work hardening deforms the stainless steel in order to strengthen it. There are two types that work the best for work hardening, including martensitic and austenitic. Martensitic steel shows the highest levels of corrosion resistance as well as hardness, making it easier for it to endure the work hardening process. Austenitic steel can endure cold temperatures and can be pulled as thin as a wire.
