Information
Stainless steel, particularly the 304 grade, serves as a cornerstone material for laboratory metalware consumables due to its superior corrosion resistance and durability. It ensures product cleanliness and integrity in various laboratory applications, providing an ideal surface for sterile conditions.
Key Features:
- Corrosion Resistance: 304 stainless steel offers exceptional resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for handling a wide range of chemicals, organic compounds, and inorganic substances.
- Durability: With its robust construction, stainless steel withstands harsh laboratory environments and maintains its integrity over prolonged use.
- Temperature Range: Operates effectively within a temperature range of -196 to +550°C, making it suitable for a variety of laboratory processes.
- Cleaning Efficiency: Stainless steel is quick to clean and resistant to sterilising solutions, facilitating easy maintenance and ensuring sterile surfaces.
- Composition: The 304 grade contains approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel, enhancing its corrosion resistance and durability.
- Non-Magnetic Properties: Stainless steel 304 is non-magnetic, distinguishing it from lower-cost magnetic stainless steels and providing a quick quality test.
Corrosion Resistance:
- Water: Metallurgically incapable of rusting in water, stainless steel effectively resists rust and stains, maintaining cleanliness.
- Acids: Exhibits varying resistance to different acids, with excellent resistance to sulphuric acid and phosphoric acid but limited resistance to hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids.
- Alkalis: Generally unaffected by alkali solutions, ensuring durability in laboratory settings.
- Cleaning: Routine cleaning is necessary to preserve its appearance and corrosion resistance, with a range of cleaning methods available to remove contaminants effectively.
Temperature Considerations:
- Normal Range: Operates effectively within a temperature range of -196 to +550°C.
- High Temperatures: Suitable for intermittent use up to 870°C; continuous use in the 550-870°C range is not recommended due to potential corrosion effects.
Cleaning Methods:
- Water and Wipe: The simplest method for mild stains is to utilise warm water and a soft cloth.
- Ultrasonic Cleaning: Utilises ultrasonic activity in a detergent solution to remove debris and dirt effectively.
- Solvent Cleaning: Organic solvents such as acetone and methyl alcohol can remove fresh debris and oils.
- Commercial Cleaners: Various commercial cleaners compounded from phosphates, synthetic detergents, and alkalis are available for heavily soiled surfaces.