Frequently asked questions by specifiers (e.g. Architects and Interior Designers).

Question:
Identification of stainless steel is based on 3 elements of description?Answer:



PropertyInterpretation
Material thickness Choices for use, structure, wear & tear, durability.
Grade (Type) Physical properties dependent on environment and use e.g. General, laboratory, marine and/or other special needs.
FinishActual physical appearance dependent on needs e.g. aesthetics, additional corrosion resistance, tone.


For example a stainless steel sheet in common use for domestic or commercial benchtops is specified thus:
1.2mm (thickness), Type 304 (grade, type), No 4 finish (finish)
Question:
What finish for what situation?Answer:
There are many and varied situations where stainless steel finish is important and usually for 2 reasons:
1) Aesthetics.
2) Additional corrosion resistance.

No 4 Finish (i.e. Satin or Brushed)
No 4 finish is generally accepted as the most versatile and economical to use as a commercial finish. Applications include benches, sinks, sanitary ware, commercial equipment, cladding and paneling.

2B Finish.
This is actually a mill-applied finish which cannot be reproduced by mechanical means. However it is one of the most corrosion resistant finishes. Visually the finish is a dull grey or opaque look (as opposed to the silver appearance of No 4 finish).

This finish is becoming more widely used for external claddings and building finishes such as flashings, box gutters, rainwater heads, roofing etc.

Polished (Bright) Finish
This finish is another of the more corrosion resistant finishes and is of particular advantage when used on coastal applications e.g. balustrades, marine fitting where stainless steel would otherwise exhibit a ‘tarnished’ look known as ‘tea staining’.

Other Finishes
A myriad of other finishes and textures are available (above are the most common used finishes) such as the Rimex range of metals and finishes (visit Rimexmetals.com)

Links
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