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The wide-ranging applications of stainless steel have made this iron alloy a vital component of modern life. Owing to its durability, resistance to corrosion, robustness, and longer life cycle, this material is used across an entire spectrum of industries. Since it is used to build everything from the smallest needle to the tallest skyscraper, the uses of stainless steel go far beyond just the construction and automotive industry.
It is also important to note that there are more than 150 grades of stainless steel, with over a dozen being used in everyday applications. This alloy is made in different forms – including pipes, bars, plates, and sheets for effective utilisation in both industrial and domestic settings.
Uses of Stainless Steel in Construction – An Overview
The use of stainless steel in construction began to gain popularity in the late 1920s. The material had drawn the attention of architects during the art deco period which was characterised by sleek and geometric shapes formed by man-made materials. The trend became so prominent that stainless steel was used to build the top part of the Chrysler Building in New York City.
For the uninitiated, stainless steel is an alloy of iron, chromium, and in some instances, nickel as well as other metals. It is highly resistant to water, which means it does not rust and is fairly low maintenance. Moreover, it is completely recyclable, making it one of the most sustainable and eco-friendly building materials.
Stainless steel is also rather strong yet flexible, allowing usage in constructing exterior cladding of high-rise towers as well as the interior design in the form of countertops, handrails, and more.
Furthermore, this alloy is relatively easy to weld and has an attractive finish. It is also easy to clean and can last for decades to come. Some of the most well-known architectural landmarks featuring stainless steel in their design include the Helix Bridge in Singapore, the One World Trade Centre in New York, and the Eurostar Terminal in London.
Primary Types of Stainless Steel
There are thousands of different types of stainless-steel alloys being used across the world. However, most of them fall under four categories as mentioned below:
Austenitic Stainless Steel
The production of austenitic stainless steel includes a lot more chromium than what is used in other alloys. As a result, items made from this type of stainless steel are more resistant to corrosion and tend to be non-magnetic, though they can become magnetic by undergoing a cold forming process.
Ferritic Stainless Steel
Considered the second most common type of alloy, ferritic stainless steel had lower nickel content. It is used in the production of various items, which can be strengthened through a cold-forming process. These items are largely magnetic though much less expensive than other types of stainless-steel alloys.
Martensitic Stainless Steel
Although not as commonly used as the above-mentioned alloys, martensitic stainless steel is used to build high-impact buildings and vehicles. It has a high tensile strength, which makes it suitable for the job along with adding to its price. This type of stainless steel is usually coated with a protective polymer to enhance its water resistance.
Duplex
Duplex stainless steel is a mixture of ferrite and austenite alloys. Owing to its microstructure, this type of stainless steel is two times as strong as other alloys, boasting brilliant corrosion resistance and toughness. It is generally used in chemical industries and oil industries to build gas processing equipment. Moreover, it is an essential part of the construction industry.
Properties of Stainless Steel
Some of the most noteworthy properties of stainless steel include:
- Resistant to corrosion
- Longer life span
- High durability
- Temperature resistant
- Flexibility
- High tensile strength
- Easy formability
- Low maintenance
- Attractive finish
- Environmentally friendly
Uses of Stainless Steel in the Construction Industry
Wondering what are the uses of stainless steel in construction? Let’s find out.
Plumbing and Drainage System
Most builders choose stainless steel to build drainage systems in residential and commercial properties due to its ease of fabrication and reusability. In addition, it is more hygienic than many other metals available in the market. Pipes made from stainless steel are also relatively easy to clean and sterilise, making them a great choice for such applications. The installation time of these pipes is about 40 percent faster than that of iron plumbing. The smooth finish and resistance to water are additional benefits that make this material a favourite among contractors and architects.
Swimming Pools
Stainless steel is a lightweight alloy with more tensile strength than most other metals. Its durability combined with its smooth and non-porous surface that allows for easy cleaning makes it an ideal choice to build swimming pools. Not to mention, the high flexibility of stainless steel ensures easy installation. It also weighs three times less than concrete and does not rust, making it a suitable material for swimming pools.
Kitchen Countertops and Backsplashes
The applications of stainless steel are not limited to the exterior and the foundation of buildings. Instead, it is also a popular choice among interior designers.
One of the most common uses of stainless steel is the construction of kitchen countertops and backsplashes. While marble, granite, and quartz had long been the top choice among home décor experts, they are slowly being replaced by the metal alloy due to its sturdiness, smooth surface, natural shine, and water-resistant properties. Moreover, unlike stone surfaces, stainless steel counters don’t require regular polishing and can easily handle hot objects without showing any signs of distress.
To learn more, please feel free to take a look at our guide on stainless steel kitchen equipment.
Staircase Railings
Stainless steel is also widely used to construct railings that are installed on stairways in houses and buildings alike. These railings are not only strong and durable, but they are also stylish and aesthetically appealing. Since this metal is highly sustainable, you are also most likely to find it in green buildings that pride themselves on their usage of modern yet eco-friendly design features.
Steel Framework
Architecturally exposed steel framework has become quite a popular design trend over the past years. Though widely associated with the corporate sector, the exposed metal bars on the ceiling can usually be seen everywhere from high-end department stores and malls to upscale office buildings and skyscrapers.
It is important to note that stainless steel framework not only enhances the visual appeal of a property but also adds strength to the building.
Furthermore, this alloy is used in the construction of bridges, dams, and a plethora of other structures around the world. Some of the top industries that use stainless steel include the automotive industry, nuclear power industry, and pulp and paper industries, among others. It is also used to build valves, tanks, and other materials.
This brings us to the end of our guide on the uses of stainless steel in construction and other industries. To learn more about how to clean stainless steel as well as its applications, please stay connected to Zameen Blog – the best lifestyle and property blog in Pakistan. You can also write to us at blog@zameen.com and visit our Facebook page to stay informed about the latest real estate investment opportunities near you.
