LARRYN SMERLING | DS 224 | FALL 2020
STAINLESS STEEL
Stainless Steel has emerged as an essential material in modern construction. Aside from Steel's
versatility and strength, Stainless Steel has additional benefits. Steel is the most important invention for architecture and every
other industry. Steel is not a naturally found metal; it is created in melting down iron, with small traces of carbon, manganese,
silicon, phosphorus, sulfur, and oxygen. Processing iron, Steel is a cost-effective, robust, and durable material. Stainless Steel
is slightly different in element makeup than regular Steel; chromium, nickel, silicon, manganese, nitrogen, and carbon are the
predominant materials that make a stronger alloy than Steel alone. The chromium added into Steel is the defining element that
gives Steel its shine and resistance from corrosion. The product is created through cold rolling, which compresses the metal into
measurable and standard/ smooth finishes. Post cold rolling, there are several different methods to refine further the material
( buffing, wet etching, dry etching). Easy to fabricate, corrosion-resistant, and strong making it a great material to finish
spaces with. Stainless Steel is often found in kitchens because of the previously listed attributes and fits a sleek modern look.
Characteristics
Source & Production
Maintenance
Requirements
Product Application
Environmental Impact
Environmental Impact
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100% recyclable
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Stainless Steel and other metals can be repurposed without losing desirable qualities.
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The fabrication of the metal creates emissions; however, it is still considered a green material.
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Stainless Steel is made of 70% recycled material
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doesn't need to go through as much processing when using recycled material
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The longevity of Stainless Steel is one of its best qualities.
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no need for harsh cleaning chemicals or coatings on the material because of its antibacterial/ smooth finish.
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The non-porous surface also does not react with food
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does not produce any VOC emissions,
Testing & Regulations
American iron and steel institute, Specialty steel institute of North America,
and ASTM are three locations to see rules and regulations to ensure stainless
steel products' quality.
"ASTM's steel standards are instrumental in classifying, evaluating, and
specifying the material, chemical, mechanical, and metallurgical properties
of the different types of steels, which are primarily used in the production of
mechanical components, industrial parts, and construction elements, as
well as other accessories related to them."
Different quality levels of the metal are known as grades of stainless Steel;
grades determine corrosion, heat resistance, and a myriad of strength tests.
Organizations &
Standards
