Why Are Stainless Steel Sanitary Valves So Special?

These days, we’re surrounded by stainless steel. Whether it’s the forks in our cutlery drawer or the sanitary valves in our food processing plant, it seems like stainless steel makes the world go ‘round. But what makes this metal so special, and why is it the superior choice for sanitary valves?

Since we specialize in valves made with this material, we decided to take a closer look at what sets it apart and why it will benefit your commercial operation.

WHAT IS STAINLESS STEEL?

Stainless steel is an alloy of Iron with a minimum of 10.5 percent chromium. The addition of chromium produces a thin layer of oxide on the surface of the steel known as the 'passive layer',” explains the British Stainless Steel Association. “Stainless steel also contains varying amounts of Carbon, Silicon and Manganese. Other elements such as Nickel and Molybdenum may be added to impart other useful properties such as enhanced formability and increased corrosion resistance.”

ADVANTAGES OF STAINLESS STEEL OVER OTHER METALS

So why is stainless steel in such high demand in modern manufacturing? It comes down to superior performance in four important areas:

• Resistance to corrosion - Pipes and surfaces in processing plants are constantly exposed to acids, alkaline solutions, and chlorine solutions which are highly corrosive to other types of metal. Only stainless steel can resist this damage for long periods of time.
• Resistance to fight and heat damage - Pipes and surfaces in processing plants are also frequently exposed to high levels of heat and in some cases open flames. Stainless steel can withstand this abuse without damage or permanent discoloration.
• Ease of cleaning - Processing plants, especially those involving food or other substances that must remain sterile at all times, love stainless steel sanitary valves because they’re so easy to keep clean. This is also why stainless steel is a top choice for surfaces and equipment in hospitals, commercial and residential kitchens, and doctors offices.

All these benefits and more are why stainless steel is so desirable, and why Chemseal has become a leader in the stainless steel sanitary valve industry.

Shop our full selection of valves and fittings today.

Apr 18th 2017 Chemseal / Veronica Gonzalez