DESIGNER

HANDBOOK

THE CARE AND CLEANING O F S TA I N L E S S STEEL

Stainless Steel
The Value Option

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
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WHAT IS STAINLESS STEEL ALLOY TYPES

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FORMS AND FINISHES

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CLEANING OF STAINLESS STEEL Types of surface contaminants

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TYPES OF CLEANERS AND METHODS EFFECTIVE CLEANING METHODS CARE OF STAINLESS STEEL

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LISTING OF STAINLESS STEEL PIPE AND TUBE MANUFACTURERS

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Acknowledgments
The Specialty Steel Industry of North America (SSINA) acknowledges that this new handbook contains information originally published by the Committee of Stainless Steel Producers, American Iron and Steel Institute, which no longer exists. Current SSINA member companies were represented on that committee. The SSINA wishes to acknowledge the contributions of the Nickel Development Institute and its consultant, Technical Marketing Resources (Pittsburgh, PA) for help in preparing the contents of this handbook. The Specialty Steel Industry of the North America (SSINA) and the individual companies it represents have made every effort to ensure that the information presented in this handbook is technically correct. However, neither the SSINA nor its member companies warrants the accuracy of the information contained in this handbook or its suitability for any general and specific use. The SSINA assumes no liability or responsibility of any kind in connection with the use of this information. The reader is advised that the material contained herein should not be used or relied on for any specific or general applications without first securing competent advice.

INTRODUCTION
Cleanliness and stainless steel are closely related and, in many applications, each is dependent upon the other. In the handling of food, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and in the use of stainless steel as a construction material (roofs, wall panels, entry ways, signs, etc.), stainless steel provides the degree of corrosion resistance that is necessary to prevent product contamination or surface rusting. However, stainless steel performs best when clean cleanliness is essential for maximum resistance to corrosion. This handbook describes various practices for cleaning stainless steel during manufacture and in use. This includes methods for removing free-iron contamination on stainless steel surfaces that may have been picked up from metalworking tools; and for removing general accumulation of dirt, grime and surface stains that occur during normal handling and exposure to the elements. The reader should keep in mind that there are few specific rules for a cleaning procedure. Accordingly, the methods discussed in this handbook are suggestions. Each manufacturer or user, after obtaining competent advice with respect to their individual requirements, should select methods appropriate to those requirements.

WHAT IS STAINLESS STEEL

Stainless steel is not a single alloy, but rather the name applies to a group of iron-based alloys containing a minimum 10.5% chromium. Other elements are added and the chromium content increased to improve the corrosion resistance and heat resisting properties, enhance mechanical properties, and/or improve fabricating characteristics. There are over 50 stainless steel grades that were originally recognized by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Three general classifications are used to identify stainless steel. They are: 1) Metallurgical structure. 2) The AISI numbering system (200, 300 and 400 series numbers). 3) The Unified Numbering System, which was developed by the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) to apply to all commercial metals and alloys. The various types of stainless steel are detailed in a designer handbook, Design Guidelines for the Selection and Use of Stainless Steel, available from the Specialty Steel Industry of North America (SSINA). Several other publications are also available, including: Stainless Steel Fabrication, Stainless Steel Fasteners, Stainless Steel Finishes, Stainless Steel Specifications, and Stainless Steel Architectural Facts, to mention a few.

ALLOY TYPES
304 is the basic chromium-nickel austenitic stainless steel and has been found suitable for a wide range of applications. It is the most readily available in a variety of product forms. This grade is easy to form and fabricate with excellent resistance to corrosion. 304L is the low carbon version of 304. It is sometimes specified where extensive welding will be done. 316 offers more corrosion-resistance through the addition of molybdenum. This grade is desirable where the possibility of severe corrosion exists, such as heavy industrial atmospheres and marine environments. 316L is the low carbon version of 316. 430 is a straight chromium ferritic stainless steel with lower corrosion resistance than the 300 series. It is principally employed for interior use.

FORMS AND FINISHES

Sheet, strip, plate, and bar forms are shown in Table 1. Sheet finishes are shown in Table 2. Bar product conditions and finishes are shown in Table 3; Plate is shown in Table 4.

Table 1 CLASSIFICATION OF STAINLESS STEEL PRODUCT FORMS

Item Description Dimensions Thickness Width Diameter or Size

Sheet

Coil and cut lengths: Mill finishes Nos. 1, 2D & 2B Pol. finishes Nos. 3, 4, 6, 7 & 8 Cold finished, coils or cut lengths Pol. finishes Nos. 3, 4, 6, 7 & 8 Flat rolled or forged Hot finished rounds, squares, octagons and hexagons Hot finished flats Cold finished rounds, squares, octagons and hexagons Cold finished flats

under 3/16 (4.76mm) under 3/16 (4.76mm) under 3/16 (4.76mm) under 3/16 (4.76mm)

24 (609.6mm) & over all widths under 24 (609.6mm) all widths

1/4 (6.35mm) & over

Strip

In addition to the common mill and polished finishes, there are numerous special finishes used for architectural applications. Some of the more delicate finishes require special precautions when cleaning and the advice of the supplier should be obtained. The most common special finishes are shown in Table 5.
Wire Plate Bar

3/16 (4.76mm) & over over 10 (254mm) 1/8 (3.18mm) to 8 (203mm) incl. 1/8 (3.18mm) to 4 1/2 (114mm) 1/4 (6.35mm) to 10 (254mm) incl. 3/8 (9.53mm) to 4 1/2 (114mm)

over 1/8 (3.18mm)

Cold finishes only: (in coil) Round, square, octagon, hexagon, and flat wire

under 3/16 (4.76mm)

under 3/8 (9.53mm)

Pipe & Tubing

Several different classifications, with differing specifications, are available. For information on standard sizes, consult your local Steel Service Center or the SSINA.

Extrusions Not considered standard shapes, but of potentially wide interest. Currently limited in size to approximately 6 1/2 (165.1mm) diameter, or structurals.

Table 2 STANDARD MECHANICAL SHEET FINISHES

Unpolished or Rolled Finishes: No. 1 A rough, dull surface which results from hot rolling to the specified thickness followed by annealing and descaling.

No. 2D A dull finish which results from cold rolling followed by annealing and descaling, and may perhaps get a light roll pass through unpolished rolls. A 2D finish is used where appearance is not of primary concern. No. 2B A bright, cold-rolled finish resulting in the same manner as No. 2D finish, except that the annealed and descaled sheet receives a final light roll pass through polished rolls. This is the general-purpose cold-rolled finish that can be used as is or as a preliminary step to polishing.
Polished Finishes: No. 3 An intermediate polish surface obtained by finishing with a 100-grit abrasive. Generally used where a semifinished polished surface is required. A No. 3 usually receives additional polishing during fabrication.

No. 4 No. 6

A polished surface obtained by finishing with a 120-150 mesh abrasive, following initial grinding with coarser abrasives. This is a general-purpose bright finish with a visible grain which prevents mirror reflection. A dull satin finish having lower reflectivity than No. 4 finish in a medium of abrasive and oil. It is used for architectural applications and ornamentation where a higher luster is undesirable, and to contrast with brighter finishes. A highly reflective finish that is obtained by buffing finely ground surfaces but not to the extent of completely removing the grit lines. It is used chiefly for architectural and ornamental purposes. The most reflective surface obtained by polishing with successively finer abrasives and buffing extensively until all grit lines from preliminary grinding operations are removed. It is used for applications such as mirrors and reflectors.

No. 7 No. 8

Table 3 CONDITIONS & FINISHES FOR BAR

Conditions Surface Finishes*

CLEANING OF STAINLESS STEEL

Stainless steels need to be cleaned for aesthetic considerations and to preserve corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is protected from corroson by a thin layer of chromium oxide. Oxygen from the atmosphere combines with the chromium in the stainless steel to form this passive chromium oxide film that protects from further corrosion. Any contamination of the surface by dirt, or other material, hinders this passivation process and traps corrosive agents, reducing corrosion protection. Thus, some form of routine cleaning is necessary to preserve the appearance and integrity of the surface. Stainless steels are easily cleaned by many different methods. They actually thrive with frequent cleaning, and, unlike some other materials, it is impossible to wear out stainless steel by excessive cleaning. The effect of surface/pattern roughness, grain/pattern orientation, and designs that allow for maximum rain cleaning (exterior applications) should be considered.

Hot worked only

(a) Scale not removed (excluding spot conditioning) (b) Rough turned** (c) Pickled or blast cleaned and pickled (a) Scale not removed (excluding spot conditioning) (b) Rough turned (c) Pickled or blast cleaned and pickled (d) Cold drawn or cold rolled (e) Centerless ground (f) Polished (d) Cold drawn or cold rolled (e) Centerless ground (f) Polished

Annealed or otherwise heat treated

Annealed and cold worked to high tensile strength***

* Surface finishes (b), (e) and (f) are applicable to round bars only. ** Bars of the 4xx series stainless steels which are highly hardenable, such as Types 414, 420, 420F, 431, 440A, 440B and 440C, are annealed before rough turning. Other hardenable grades, such as Types 403, 410, 416 and 416Se, may also require annealing depending on their composition and size. *** Produced in Types 302, 303Se, 304 and 316.

Table 4 CONDITIONS & FINISHES FOR PLATE

Condition and Finish Description and Remarks

Hot rolled Hot rolled, annealed or heat treated Hot rolled, annealed or heat treated, blast cleaned or pickled Hot rolled, annealed, descaled and temper passed Hot rolled, annealed, descaled cold rolled, annealed, descaled, optionally temper passed Hot rolled, annealed or heat treated, surface cleaned and polished

Scale not removed. Not heat treated. Plates not recommended for final use in this condition.* Scale not removed. Use of plates in this condition is generally confined to heat resisting applications. Scale impairs corrosion resistance.* Condition and finish commonly preferred for corrosion resisting and most heat resisting applications. Smoother finish for specialized applications.

Types of surface contaminants

Smooth finish with greater freedom from surface imperfections than the above. Polished finishes: refer to Table 2.

Dirt - Like any surface that is exposed to the environment, stainless steel can get dirty. Dirt and soil can consist of accumulated dust and a variety of contaminates that come from many sources, ranging from the wind to everyday use. These contaminates will vary greatly in their effect on appearance and corrosivity and ease of removal. While some may be easily removed, others may require specific cleaners for effective removal. It may be necessary to identify the contaminate or experiment with various cleaners. Frequently, warm water with or without a gentle detergent is sufficient. Next in order are mild non-scratching abrasive powders such as typical household cleaners. These can be used with warm water, bristle brushes, sponges, or clean cloths.

* Surface inspection is not practicable on plates which have not been pickled or otherwise descaled.

Table 5 SPECIAL STAINLESS STEEL FINISHES

Finish Selective Polishing Description Selective polishing of unprotected areas to produce patterns

Swirl Engine Turn Distressed Angel Hair Abrasive Blast Selective Etching Embossing Electrochemical Epoxy Paint Sputtering Plating Perforated Designs

Swirl patterns obtained with grinding wheels or stainless steel wire brushes Rings, circles, or overlapping circles created with a CNC-operated machine Random scratch pattern covering entire surface Finer random scratch pattern Matte, uniform, blast media choice determines appearance Etching of selected surface areas to obtain a pattern Raised patterns pressed into the stainless by rolling Applied to cut sheets, numerous colors (also called INCO or light interference coloring) Applied to coils, full range of colors Thin layer of a colored material applied to surface Electroplating with colored and/or precious metals Simple or elaborate patterns

Ordinary carbon steel brushes or steel wool should be avoided as they may leave particles embedded on the surface which can lead to RUSTING. For more aggressive cleaning, a small amount of vinegar can be added to the scouring powder. Cleaning should always be followed by rinsing in clean hot water. When water contains mineral solids, which leave water spots, it is advisable to wipe the surface completely with dry towels. Fingerprints and Stains - Fingerprints and mild stains resulting from normal use in consumer and architectural applications are the most common surface contaminates. Fortunately, these usually affect only appearance and seldom have an effect on corrosion resistance. They are easy to remove by a variety of simple cleaning methods. Fingerprints are probably the most troublesome marks to remove from the surface of smooth polished or bright finished stainless steel. Fortunately, they can be removed with a glass cleaner or by gentle rubbing with a paste of soda ash (sodium carbonate) and water applied with a soft rag. Once again, this should be followed by a thorough warm water rinse. There are several special surface finishes where fingerprints present special problems: polished No. 6, etched, some abrasive blasted finishes, and light electrochemical colors applied over satin or brushed finishes. (NOTE: there are several special finishes designed to withstand fingerprints: embossed, swirl patterns, lined patterns, etc.).

Shop oil and Grease - Shop oils, which may carry grease, grit and metal chips, commonly produce surface soiling after many shop operations. Greases and other contaminates may also soil surfaces in food preparation and many other household and commercial situations. These soils may be corrosive in themselves or may not allow the surface to maintain passivity, and so periodic removal is a necessity. Initially, soap or detergent and water may be tried or a combination of detergent and water plus a solvent. The removal of oil and grease from stainless steel parts by immersion in chemical solvents is frequently used with cold-formed or machined parts that are laden with lubricants. This process, in its simplest form, consists of bringing liquid solvent into contact with the surface to be cleaned and allowing dissolution to take place; for example, washing a surface with trichloroethylene or similar liquid or stirring a batch of small parts in a container of solvent. Non-halgenated solvents, such as acetone, methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, methyl ethyl ketone, benzene, isopropyl alcohol, toluene, mineral spirits, and turpentine work well. Many of these solvents are widely used as individual cleaners, but there are thousands of blended or compound cleaners on the market. Users are advised to contact suppliers of solvents for information on their applications on stainless steel.

not a problem on dull finishes, or those surfaces finished with a coarse polishing grit. The best preventative measure is to avoid using abrasive cleaners unless absolutely necessary. When abrasives are needed, first experiment on an inconspicuous area. A soft abrasive, such as pumice, should be used. Abrasives can permanently damage some colored and highly polished finishes. Advice should be obtained from the finish supplier when cleaning special finishes. Many cleaners contain corrosive ingredients which require thorough post-clean rinsing with clean water; however, thorough rinsing is recommended for all cleaning procedures. Clean Water and Wipe - The simplest, safest, and least costly method that will adequately do the job is always the best method. Stainless surfaces thrive with frequent cleaning because there is no surface coating to wear off stainless steels. A soft cloth and clean warm water should always be the first choice for mild stains and loose dirt and soils. A final rinse with clean water and a dry wipe will complete the process and eliminate the possibility of water stains. Solvent Cleaning - Organic solvents can be used to remove fresh fingerprints and oils and greases that have not had time to oxidize or decompose. The preferred solvent is one that does not contain chlorine, such as acetone, methyl alcohol, and mineral spirits. There are many compounded or blended organic cleaners that are commercially available and attempt to optimize both cleanability and safety attributes. Cleaning can be accomplished by immersing smaller articles directly into the solvent, wiping with solvent-impregnated cloths, or by sophisticated vapor or spray methods. The wiping technique sometimes leaves a streaked surface.

TYPES OF CLEANERS AND METHODS

General Precautions
In selecting cleaning practices, consider the possibility of scratching and the potential for post-cleaning corrosion caused by incompletely removed cleaners. Scratching can occur on a bright mirror finish by cleaners that contain hard abrasives, or even by grit in wash water. This is usually

EFFECTIVE CLEANING METHODS

Job Cleaning Agents* Comments

CARE OF STAINLESS STEEL

The cleaner stainless steel can be kept while in storage, being processed or during use, the greater the assurance of optimum corrosion resistance. Some tips on the care of stainless steel are listed below: 1) Use paper or other protective wrapping on the surface of the
Rub lightly, using dry damp cloth, in the direction of polish lines on the stainless steel.

Routine Cleaning

Warm Water, Soap, Ammonia, Detergent

Apply with sponge or soft cloth. Can be used on all finishes. Provides barrier film to minimize fingerprints. Can be used on all finishes.

Fingerprints and Smears 3M Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish, Arcal 20, Lac-O-Nu, Lumin Wash, OCedar Cream Polish, Stainless Shine

Stubborn Stains and Discoloration

3M Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish, Allchem Concentrated Cleaner, Samae, Twinkle, Cameo Copper Cleaner, Grade FFF or Grade F Italian Pumice, Whiting or talc, Liquid Nu Steel, Coppers or Revere Stainless Steel Cleaner, Household Cleaners, Lumin Cleaner, Zud Restoro, Sta-Clean, Highlite, Allen Polish, Penny-Brite, Copper-Brite Scotch-Brite Power Pad 2001, Easy-Off, De-Grease-It, 4% to 6% hot solution of such agents as tri-sodium polyphosphate, 5% to 15% caustic soda solution Any good commercial detergent or caustic cleanser.

stainless steel until processing is complete.* 2) Handle stainless steel with clean gloves or cloths to guard against stains or finger marks. 3) Avoid the use of oily rags or greasy

Grease and Blood Burnt-on or Baked-on Foods

Excellent removal on acids, all finishes. Particularly useful where rubbing is not practical.

cloths when wiping the surface. 4) Do routine cleaning of exposed surfaces. Buildings with window washing systems can utilize this method to clean exterior panels. 5) Where possible, after cleaning, rinse thoroughly with water. 6) Cleaning with chloride-containing detergents must be avoided. 7) Even the finest cleaning powders can scratch or burnish a mill-rolled finish. On polished finishes, rubbing or wiping should be done in the direction of the polish lines, NOT across them. 8) DO NOT USE SOLVENTS in closed spaces or while smoking. *Many adhesive-backed papers and plastic sheets or tape applied to stainless steel for protection age in fairly short periods of time and become extremely difficult to remove. Manufacturers should be contacted regarding information as to how long protective films or paper can be left in place.

Grease and Oil

Apply with sponge or soft cloth in direction of polish lines.

*NOTE: Use of proprietary names is intended only to indicate a type of cleaner and does not constitute an endorsement. Omission of any proprietary cleanser does not imply its inadequacy. All products should be used in strict accordance with instructions on package.

Household Cleaners - Household cleaners fall into two categories: detergent (non-abrasive) and abrasive cleaners. Both are effective for many mild dirt, stain, and soil deposits, as well as light oils such as fingerprints. The abrasive cleaners are more effective but introduce the possibility of scratching the surface. However, the degree of abrasiveness will vary greatly with the particular product, and some brands will produce noticeable scratching on only the most highly polished and some colored surfaces. All of these cleaners vary widely with respect to their acidity and the amount of chloride they contain. A neutral cleaner low in chloride is preferred unless the user is assured that the surface can be thoroughly rinsed after cleaning. The fact that the label states for stainless steel is no guarantee that the product is not abrasive, not acidic,

or low in chloride. The cleaning method generally employed with these cleaners is to apply them to the stainless surface and follow by cloth wiping, or to wipe directly with a cleaner-impregnated soft cloth. In all cases, the cleaned surface should be thoroughly rinsed with clean water and wiped dry with a soft cloth if water streaking is a consideration. Commercial Cleaners - Many commercial cleaners compounded from phosphates, synthetic detergents, and alkalis are available for the cleaning of severely soiled or stained stainless surfaces. When used with a variety of cleaning methods, these cleaners can safely provide effective cleaning. Manufacturers should be consulted and their recommendations followed whenever using cleaners of this kind. The general precautions stated above also pertain to these cleaners.