Stainless steel is used in many environments and for many different purposes because of its non corrosive ability and there are many industries where the use of stainless steel is paramount.
Swimming pools are an area where the use of stainless steel is paramount and there are many different uses such as railings, balconies, fountains and slides of various designs and styles. Stainless steel in this environment has to stand up to and withstand harsh chemicals used in the water, harsh chemicals are necessary in order to combat and retain the water quality.
Many of the chemicals used are chlorine based which are harsh chemicals which will react to the environment and the people using the pools. The chemical reactions coupled with the high temperatures of the water all play a part in the corrosion of the stainless steel.
Indoor pools are very popular and are used by a high volume of people every day; this means that more chemicals are used in order to control the water quality to make the pool safe for human inhabitation.
Evaporation of water will occur and droplets of water will inevitably fall and penetrate into the stainless steel which can cause the stainless steel to crack and become unsafe. The most important aspect of stainless steel in this type of environment is the grade of stainless steel used which will determine the effect of certain chemicals on stainless steel. The design and manufacture of stainless steel will also play a part in the longevity of stainless steel in a pool environment.
Any stainless steel installed in a pool area will be designed accordingly; the grade of stainless steel will be ideal for the environment and be inspected regularly. The stainless steel will also be cleaned regularly in order to reduce the effect of the chemicals. Stress corrosion cracking is used to describe what can happen to stainless steel in pool environments when the chemicals penetrate the stainless steel and induce cracking, this can then make the stainless steel unsafe.
Stress corrosion cracking can be avoided if the correct grade of stainless steel is used, regular inspection takes place and stainless steel is cleaned regularly.
Stainless steel is an easily manipulated and fabricated product that is all around us in exterior and interior environments. Stainless steel is used in a multitude of industries and makes certain tasks possible.
We never give it much thought how useful and vital stainless steel is in our daily lives and the vital role it plays.
About the Author
Heathbrook supply Architectural products, Stainless steel and Aluminium products. http://www.heathbrook.co.uk
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