Food-grade stainless steel: all about steel for household utensils and medical instruments

Today, rolled steel, which is not prone to rust (corrosion-resistant steel, the so-called “stainless steel”), is one of the most popular metal alloys used for both domestic and industrial purposes. This alloy easily entered the everyday life of people and became the basis for the production of household appliances, tableware and decorative interior components. All because stainless steel items have excellent characteristics for use compared to other metals.

Types of household stainless steel

Stainless steel used in everyday life, which is purchased as a finished product or as a billet, differs in its chemical composition. Based on it, the possibility of manufacturing one or another type of steel products depends on it.

Let’s consider in more detail the options for stainless corrosion-resistant alloys:

1. Chromium alloys. They are the best for kitchen utensils, household items, tools used for cutting.
2. Stainless alloys with nickel, manganese and chromium. These alloys are mainly used for dining room tableware, another field of application is surgery (sleeves for stamped-type crowns are melted from them).
3. Austenitic alloys. They are used in the food industry, and they are used to produce items used in aggressive environments and at high temperatures.

Among the popular brands that are used for household purposes, AISI stainless steel stands out: 420 (which has elasticity and resistance to wear), 410 (food grade), 304, 409 (which adapts well to various conditions). In general, all types of stainless steel are strong, long-lasting and corrosion-resistant.

Use of stainless steel in everyday life

When it comes to everyday life, stainless steel is an industry-shaping material. So-called “household steel” is used to make tools of complex configuration, for example, knives for cutting leather and household appliances. Body elements or mechanism parts are mostly made of stainless steel.

The popularity of using steel in the production of kitchen utensils has gained due to the excellent combination of strength and relatively light weight. Kitchen sinks, spoons, forks, food containers, pans, thermoses, knives, pans are made from it.

Positive features of household stainless steel items:

• duration of operation (the appearance does not change for a long time: the item is shiny with a smooth surface);
• hygiene;
• the material does not become dark, it is almost impossible to break or bend;
• resistance to aggressive action;
• practical and easy to care for.

In addition to the options listed above, in everyday life stainless steel is used to create: interior items, staplers, scissors, watch cases, taps for water supply, needles, hole punches and much more.