Stainless Steel Metal Fabrication Calgary

Our professionals are experts in handling stainless steel materials. Whether you need corner guards for schools or supermarkets or metal flashing, we always provide accuracy and quality in our materials and work.

Stainless steel is a metal compound that sufficiently reacts to oxygen (often in the form of water) to protect itself from forming rust or corrosion layers. We use the highest quality stainless steel to add another level of protection against water damage for longer.

Grades in stainless steel manufacturing refer to the chemical composition and appearance of the metal. The most common stainless steel grades are the 300 and 400 series.

300-series steels, popular in construction applications like roofing or metal flashing, as well as automotive applications, primarily contain chromium and nickel in their alloys. Types 304 and 316 are among the most common in the world.

400-series steels contain higher concentrations of chromium and manganese than the 300-series and generally offer higher strength but reduced corrosion resistance.

While it’s possible to weld stainless steel, the unique chemical composition of the metal complicates the process over that of other carbon steels. Stainless steel welders use specialized equipment to prevent warping and cracking.

Stainless steel generally goes through a shielded metal arc welding (MIG) process for a reliable job, though gas tungsten arc welding (TIG) may still be an option for thinner materials.

Stainless steel is renowned for its durability and longevity. However, it’s still susceptible to dirt, water scale, oil stains, corrosion, and rust, especially in industrial settings. Maintenance is fairly simple though.

Routine cleaning of stainless steel surfaces begins with warm water and soap or a gentle detergent. It is recommended to use specialized steel polishes and cleaning products. Avoid powders, harsh chemicals, and corrosive materials, which can damage the metal’s surface. Always dilute acidic cleaners if you must use them and remember to rinse afterward.

A sponge works as an applicator, though you should stay away from steel wool and metal brushes, which cause scratches in the metal.

304 and 316 are two of the most common grades available in the stainless steel industry. Both are austenitic, meaning they enjoy a high resistance to corrosion due to an alloy composition of nickel and chromium. They are also visually identical.

The main differences are:

• Composition. 304 contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel; 316 contains 16% chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum.
• Use cases. 304 is popular in the medical and food industries like stainless steel cookware, since it can endure many cleaning chemicals. 316 is common in boating and water infrastructure because it’s more resistant to corrosion than 304.
• Price. 316 carries a much higher price tag than 304 due to its additional nickel and molybdenum content.

The choice between the two comes down to the specific use case you have in mind, as both have pros and cons.

During the stainless steel fabrication process, it’s possible to cut the metal to your needs, thanks to the strength of the material. After measuring the cut, you can use a variety of tools, ranging from:

• A dremel
• An angle grinder
• A circular or chop saw
• A plasma cutter

Clean up the edge when you’re done, as rough edges are common after a cut. Be wary not to allow the metal to overheat during the process, and have proper ventilation in your workspace.

When fabricating stainless steel, the process may end with applying a finish. There are many variations of stainless steel finishes:

• 2B. This finish is bright and reflective. It’s usable as-is or can undergo an additional finishing step.
• No. 3. Brushed with 120-grit abrasive, this finish has a visible grain running in one direction.
• No. 4. Brushed with 150-grit abrasive, this finish offers a less reflective surface than No. 3. No. 4 is common in kitchens.
• No. 8. This reflective, almost mirror-like finish is perfect for reflectors and other related applications.
• BA. Polishes occasionally heat steel and allow it to cool slowly, resulting in a significantly more mirror-like finish.

While stainless steel is durable, it’s also soft and susceptible to contamination, so take care when rolling, polishing, or blasting the final product.

Bending and forming are types of steel fabrication methods available to manufacturers. However, the bending equipment must be rigid to take on stainless steel’s higher durability.

Bending machines can work with a round bar, flat bar, or a sheet of stainless steel. The process must be quick before the material hardens, and over-bending may be necessary in case the steel springs back.

Bending tubes of stainless steel is sometimes necessary in architectural applications, and hydraulic press machines are usually involved for this process.

While stainless steel is renowned for its durability and longevity, it is still susceptible to rust and corrosion, which creates an unpleasant appearance and a potential health and safety risk in certain applications. However, there are many ways to help prevent stainless steel rust and corrosion:

• Protective coatings. Oil and water-based coatings are available to protect steel from corrosion-causing agents like rain or salt. Metal paint also works for this purpose, though it requires reapplication over time. For stainless steel hinges and joints, steel lubricant is a popular option.
• Galvanization. Steel fabricators sometimes apply a thin layer of zinc to prevent corrosion.
• Special attention when cleaning. When maintaining stainless steel, avoid using abrasive tools and cleaners known to cause scratching on stainless steel. Clean along the grain for best results, and try to use soft water with few minerals dissolved in it.

After rinsing, dry immediately and do not allow standing water to stay on the surface for extended periods.

Stainless steel, especially 304, comes in various “gauges” that determine the thickness of the metal. The most common gauges are below:

• 11 gauge: 0.120”
• 12 gauge: 0.109”
• 14 gauge: 0.078”
• 16 gauge: 0.063”
• 18 gauge: 0.050”
• 20 gauge: 0.038”
• 22 gauge: 0.031”
• 24 gauge: 0.025”

Each gauge has a certain thickness tolerance, as metals of the same gauge may vary slightly in thickness.

There are many options for coatings and paints for stainless steel.

• Oil-based paints are the most common for stainless steel fabrication. They are easy to clean and do not chip as easily. You’ll also find steel in a matte or gloss finish with this coating.
• Water or latex-based paints are easier to work with, thanks to their quick drying times and low odor. However, they are not as durable and require a primer before application.
• Epoxy paints are incredibly durable to both shock and high temperatures, making them ideal in the automotive industry. However, application requires specialized equipment and expertise.