FACTS ABOUT STAINLESS STEEL

The decision to use Stainless Steel is usually based on its intrinsic properties and the benefits of those properties. The term “Stainless” refers to the phenomenon of Passivity, a term which describes the role of Chromium in the steel. In the presence of oxygen, an invisible, nonreactive, chromiumoxide film constantly forms on the surface. This self-healing, self-forming property gives stainless steel its shiny appearance yet offers the following benefits:

Corrosion Resistance – This is perhaps its most distinct property. Stainless Steel resists most oxidizing acids, is immune to sterilizing solutions, and resists most organic chemicals and a wide variety of inorganic chemicals. Hand in hand with this is stainless steel’s cleanability after its exposure to such above mentioned material.

Mechanical Properties – In particular, stainless steel is tough and maintains its strength at high temperatures and also at lower temperatures.

Ductility – This refers to stainless steel’s ability to be easily welded or machined. This is particularly important as applications requiring modifications or special fabrications can be achieved without sacrificing any of the above mentioned properties.

Along with these benefits, stainless steel is a great value when its cost is compared to the benefits that it yields. Coupled with this is the fact that stainless steel is widely available.

Eagle Stainless’ line of containers are available in both T316L and T304 stainless steel. T304 is a grade which is strong and corrosion resistant; T316L has a lower carbon content combined with higher amounts of nickel and molybdenum than what is found in T304. This has the effect of increased resistance to corrosion and pitting, essential for pharmaceutical applications. Eagle Stainless’ line of biological transfer bottles are fabricated only in T316L, as they are used almost exclusively for pharmaceutical applications.

For applications requiring specific properties which may go beyond those of T316L, Eagle Stainless has developed capabilities in the fabrication and working of other alloys such as Hastelloy® and Inconel®. The sales/engineering staff will work hand in hand with its customers in finding the right alloy for specific applications.

Hastelloy® is a registered trademark of Haynes International.
Inconel® is a registered trademark of Special Metals Welding Product Company.