The electrical and control cabinets in industrial
steel maintains its structural integrity. The material protects control cabinets through its resistance to UV exposure and temperature fluctuations, ensuring long-term performance. Stainless steel grades and composition There are more than 150 grades of stainless steel, each with varying combinations of alloy elements. According to ASTM A941, stainless steel must have a minimum chromium content of 10.5% and a maximum carbon content of 1.20%. Additional elements, such as nickel and molybdenum, influence properties like corrosion resistance and tensile strength. Two of the most widely used stainless steel grades in industrial applications are 304 and 316: ■ 304 stainless steel (18% chromium and 8% nickel) is the most common. It offers standard corrosion resistance, strength, and ease of maintenance, making it suitable for general industrial use. ■ 316 stainless steel (16% chromium, 10% nickel, and molybdenum) is the second most popular in sales volume. It provides superior corrosion resistance to chlorides, acids, and alkalis. It is suitable for environments like food processing, medical
Material advantage of stainless steel
environments are constantly subjected to physical stress, humidity, water exposure, particulate matter, and corrosive chemicals. Despite protective coatings, the traditional enclosures degrade over time, compromising their ability to protect the internal electrical systems. This degradation has a significant impact—it reduces system reliability, increases the risk of electrical faults that may be hazardous to floor operators, and drives up the maintenance and replacement costs. In industries where exposure to harsh chemicals is unavoidable, it is crucial to select a more durable alternative. One such alternative is stainless steel. With its high resistance to corrosion, better mechanical strength, and reduced maintenance needs, stainless steel has become the material of choice for industrial enclosures. It delivers a robust solution needed for control cabinets in challenging conditions, where conventional options often fail to meet performance standards. This article explores the strategic reasons for upgrading to stainless steel enclosures, showcasing examples from Hammond Manufacturing.
Understanding the material advantages of stainless steel is crucial for selecting the right grade for a specific application. In comparison to carbon steel, stainless steel has additional alloying elements—chromium, molybdenum, and nickel—that improve its corrosion resistance. When exposed to oxidizing agents, such as saltwater or chemicals, chromium forms a protective layer of chromium oxide that shields the surface from further corrosion. One of the most practical advantages of stainless steel is its low maintenance. Traditional enclosures require periodic inspections, repainting, and replacement due to rusting. By contrast, stainless steel enclosures resist rust and chemical damage over extended periods, reducing operational downtime. The clean aesthetics of stainless steel make it an ideal choice for the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and water treatment industries. Its smooth and non-porous structure allows for easy cleaning even in environments where frequent hosing or chemical washdowns are required. In outdoor or extreme temperature applications, such as rooftop HVAC units and remote utility stations, stainless
we get technical
9
Powered by FlippingBook