Stainless steel is a trusted material in many industrial and residential applications. In the construction industry, stainless steel is used in structural applications, foundation, and scaffolding. In the automotive sector, it is used in piping and air and water flow systems. Stainless steel is also used in transporting materials such as water, oil, gas, and other chemicals. Sewerage systems, industrial water lines, and water mains also use stainless steel pipes and fittings.
In home and building plumbing systems, stainless steel pipes are also a popular choice. Here are the properties of stainless steel that makes it an excellent choice for plumbing works over other materials.
Strength and Durability
Proper plumbing is an important factor in residential and commercial construction. Stainless steel may be more expensive than other metals or materials but using stainless steel in plumbing systems ensures longer and safer use. It can resist damaging factors like tree roots, human error, or changing weather conditions. Installation of stainless steel piping systems may incur higher costs than competing materials, but there will be greater savings in terms of repair. Stainless steel also does not need additional coating and require little maintenance after installation. A well-maintained stainless steel piping system is expected to last up to 50 years, which is significantly longer than other materials.
Ease of Fabrication and Installation
Stainless steel may be easily cut, machined, and fabricated enabling metal construction suppliers to deliver materials on the project site quickly. They can be molded in various shapes, sizes, and thickness depending on project requirements. Stainless steel is suitable in both indoor and outdoor applications. Installation is simple and fast, hence, reducing construction time and labor costs.
Corrosion and Stain Resistance
Stainless steel is resistant to contamination such as rust, corrosion, and chemical leaching. Even if water is contained inside the tubes for long periods, stainless steel piping systems are able to deliver fresher and cleaner water supply to homes and commercial buildings. The corrosion-resistant property of stainless steel is due to its chromium content, which is at least 10%. Other materials like nickel, molybdenum, or nitrogen may be added to stainless steel to enhance its corrosion resistance without affecting the quality of water.
Temperature Resistance
Stainless steel, depending on the grade or type, can withstand extreme temperatures. Some stainless steel grades are suitable for high temperature environments while other grades can perform well in cold areas.
High Flow Rate Resistance
Even stainless steel pipes with small diameters can bear high flow rates. This means that there is less chance that the pipe will break or leak compared to other piping materials.
Aesthetic Element
Stainless steel comes in a naturally elegant and shiny finish that it easily compliments modern interior and architectural design. Stainless steel pipes may be left exposed inside a building, adding a decorative element to the room.
Environmentally Friendly
Stainless steel is 100% recoverable, either through recycling or reuse. It is not a petroleum product and it does not need to be coated or lined with any product, making it a sustainable alternative to other materials.
As discussed above, in addition to the many industrial applications of stainless steel, using it as a material for plumbing systems provides many advantages over other piping materials. Stainless steel is more durable, requires little maintenance, adds aesthetic value and can be recycled at the end of its useful life.
