Whenever a customer complains that their stainless steel products are going rusty, there could be a number of different causes. Many of these issues, however, may have to do with the fabrication process used in the creation of the product itself. To avoid this type of outcome, what should a fabricator be doing?

Care in the Supply Chain

The first point to address is in the supply chain. A fabricator should ensure that not only is the correct grade of stainless steel selected for the job, but its surface finish is precisely specified as well. The more polished the surface, the more resistant the steel is to corrosion. This is a very technical area, where specialist advice may be required, in relation to the grade of abrasive used to finish the surface during creation.

Care in the Welding Processes

Whenever welding is part of the fabrication job, certain treatment needs to be applied at the end. This is because the process of welding creates an oxidised surface known as heat tint. This surface will have less resistance to corrosion than the adjoining material. Special cleaning and finishing techniques can be applied in these areas, using brushes, gels, pastes or sprays.

Avoid Carbon Contamination

In many cases, what appears to be rusting of stainless steel is actually rusting caused by carbon contamination. This can be due to grinding dust, the use of wire brushes or other tools. Where carbon steel fabrication is necessary as part of a stainless steel project, the two different jobs should be done in separate workshops.

If this is not possible, the machines should be cleaned down carefully in between these different processes. It is advisable to protect stainless steel surfaces with plastic coatings, prior to work commencing.

Clean It Carefully

While fabricators can exercise this degree of caution in their own work, the stainless steel surface needs to be protected throughout its journey from source to client. The type of products used for cleaning in work areas is another important consideration.

For example, products containing muriatic acid are commonly used to clean brick and masonry and these can immediately contaminate any stainless steel surfaces they come into contact with.

Care from the Client

It's important to remember, however, that if a stainless steel product is not cared for carefully by the client, rusting issues could arise. Routine cleaning of stainless steel is easy, using soap and warm water, followed by a clear rinse. For tougher cleaning jobs it's best to use nonabrasive, or non-scratching polishes or creams. Learn more from resources such as Lenwil Reinforcements.

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