Almost everyone uses stainless steel in one way or another. Stainless is used in kitchen appliances, on automobiles, in architecture, surgical instruments, industrial equipment, storage tanks and much more.
Stainless steel is highly resistance to corrosion and rust because it has a chromium-rich oxide film formed on the surface of the steel. Although extremely thin, this inert film is tightly sticking to the metal and extremely protective from a wide range of corrosive media. In the illustration below the film is rapidly repairing itself to cutting it.
Stainless steel has many other benefits
Fire and heat resistant
Special high chromium and nickel-alloyed grades resist scaling and retain strength in high temperatures
Aesthetic Appearance
The clean looking and easily maintained surface provide a modern and attractive appearance.
Ease of fabrication
Stainless steel can be cut, formed, welded machined and fabricated as readily as traditional steels.
Impact resistance
The microstructure of the 300 series provide high toughness from elevated temperatures to below freezing, making these steels suited for all applications.
Value for life
When total life cycle costs are considered, stainless steel is often the least expensive material option.
Never has to be Painted
You can paint stainless steel but it never has to be painted. Never.
Hygiene
Easy to clean and is the number one choice in hospitals and food processing plants.
Sustainable
Stainless steel can be used and recycled and reused again.