Stainless steel is a steel alloy with increased corrosion resistance compared to carbon/alloy steel. Common alloying ingredients include chromium (usually at least 11%), nickel, or molybdenum. Alloy content often is on the order of 15-30%.
Common applications include food handling/processing, medical instruments, hardware, appliances, and structural/architectural uses.
For more information about the difference between Stainless and Aluminum, click here.
Stainless steel is the universal name for a number of different steels used primarily for their anti-corrosive element. This steel has been developed to resist a number of corrosive environments. It ensures that our workplaces are safe, that buildings last longer and that our food preparation surfaces are hygienic. It is also an earth friendly material; it can be melted down, recycled and made into something else.
Stainless steel is always made using chromium. The minimum amount of chromium used is 10.5%; it is chromium that makes the steel stainless. Chromium also improves the corrosion resistance by forming a chromium oxide film on the steel. This very thin layer, when placed under the right conditions, can also be self-repairing.