304 Stainless Steel Decorative Hardware

In 1821 a Frenchman named Berthier found that iron when alloyed with chromium was resistant to some acids. Today stainless steel is a common name for metal alloys that contain 10.5% or more of chromium (Cr) and more than 50% Iron (Fe). In fact today there are over 150 types of stainless steel, most of which is unacceptable for use as decorative hardware. 304 Stainless Steel ‘18/8’ Good decorative hardware uses Grade 304 in the standard "18/8" stainless steel. It is a steel (that is, an iron-based alloy) which contains a minimum 18 percent chromium and 8 percent nickel (thus the 18/8 abbreviation). Those two elements, the chromium and secondarily the nickel, provide the corrosion and staining resistance. It is these qualities that make 304 stainless steel an excellent choice for decorative hardware. It is the most versatile and is available in a wide range of products, forms and finishes. It is also good in a wide variety of atmospheric conditions. Plus its luster lends itself to a wide array of decorative applications.

(Stainless steel that has nickel in it like 18/8 is non magnetic whereas stainless that does not have nickel in it like 18/0 is magnetic.)

As an example of the integrity of 304 stainless steel consider the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri. It stands 630 foot high and is 630 feet at its widest point. It is stainless-clad (type 304) and defines the St. Louis, Missouri skyline. Construction of the Arch began in 1963 and was completed on October 28, 1965. It has been standing in the elements for over 42 years. It is a time tested testament to 304 stainless steel.

Mary Barrett President EHC (The European Hardware Company) 800 975-7089 http://www.europeanhardware.net

Source: www.isnare.com