Why Is Stainless Steel Used In Kitchens And Hospitals?

Stainless steel is one of the most commonly used materials in commercial kitchens, hospitals, and other industrial applications where hygiene, reliability, and safety are essential. Our stainless steel fabricators on the Gold Coast explain why.

What is stainless steel?

Steel is an alloy metal, made mostly from low carbon iron. In stainless steel, a minimum of 10% chromium is included in the alloy which allows a coating to form on the surface. This coating makes the product ideal for kitchen, medical, and architectural application. Other components such as nickel may be added to change or enhance the properties of the metal.

These different additions are referred to as “grades” and will be suited to specific applications based on the properties they provide.

Why is stainless steel used?

Stainless steel offers many benefits over other metal types in all environments.

Strength

Stainless steel offers excellent tensile strength and weight-bearing capacity, and heat treatments during manufacturing can be used to increase this. This makes it suitable for ladders, scaffolding and structural work.

Corrosion resistant

The chromium added to the alloy creates a corrosion-resistant coating, making stainless steel suitable for outdoor use. Stainless steel is also non-reactive to many harsh chemicals and cleaning products such as sodium hydroxide or phosphoric acid, and will not degrade or rust. Cookware made from stainless steel is non-reactive and will not affect the flavour of the food.

Temperature resistant

Stainless steel can withstand temperature extremes from below freezing to direct flame contact, while retaining the same strength. When exposed to flame, stainless steel also resists scale build-up. Cookware and appliances, including cryogenic facilities, use stainless steel to benefit from these properties.

Hygiene

The corrosion and temperature resistant properties of stainless steel allow it to be thoroughly cleaned, including sterilisation in an autoclave. Stainless steel is easy to sanitise and is preferred for surgical equipment and food preparation areas.

Aesthetic appeal

Stainless steel has a distinctive shiny surface and is favoured by designers for a clean, modern aesthetic. The smooth surface is easy to clean and maintain, and may be used in art installations or architectural features as well as functional applications including kitchen benchtops.

Non magnetic

Some grades of stainless steel are non magnetic, offering an important safety feature for hospital equipment such as MRI machines. Grades of stainless steel that offer low or no magnetic permeability are classed as ‘austenitic’ steel.

Cost efficiency

Products manufactured from stainless steel have a longer lifespan due to their suitability for harsh treatment, while the high strength of the product can reduce the material required. Although stainless steel may cost more to install, the longevity and reliability reduces ongoing repair and maintenance costs for greater cost efficiency over time.

Stainless steel fabrication on the Gold Coast

Stainless steel is ideal for a variety of domestic, commercial and industrial projects, including the hospitality, construction, medical and pharmaceutical industries.

Sheetmetal Improvements and Design offers a full range of stainless steel fabrication from our workshop on the Gold Coast including free quotes and bespoke designs. Contact us today for more information by calling (07) 5593 4183.