Stainless Steel Sheets / Wall Panels
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300 Series Stainless Steel Sheets
The 300 series stainless steel family features a number of variations, including 301, 303, 304, 310, 316, 317, and more. Despite the number of compositions, the common factor between them is that they generally (emphasis on the generally) consist of a percentage of chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and other trace elements such as carbon, manganese, etc. There are variations in chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and iron that make some 300 series alloys more corrosion resistant than others. For fabrication purposes, keep in mind the 300 series stainless cannot be heat treated, but does work harden rapidly, is ductile (readily formable), and is austenitic (nonmagnetic). 304 and 316 are by far the most common variations and in 99% of cases will more than meet the users requirements.
We offer 304 stainless steel and can supply 316 stainless steel in any thickness providing the quantities are high enough. We do fabricate 316 stainless steel trim and can provide 24ga material in 2B, #8 mirror, or #4 brushed finishes.
Where to Use 304 Stainless Steel
We recommend using type 304 stainless steel in commercial and residential kitchens, hospitals, labs, trash rooms, clean rooms, correctional facilities, and in commercial and industrial facilities where aesthetically pleasing, general wall protection is required. The type 304 stainless steel sheets are an excellent, long term wall covering solution that is easy to maintain and keep clean.
Where to Use 316 Stainless Steel
There is some misconception about when to use 316 stainless steel. Typically, you only need type 316 stainless steel in highly corrosive environments such as canning facilities, marine applications, oil field applications, some food processing, power generation, etc. A good determining factor is if the sheets will be continuously exposed to harsh chemicals and/or salt spray, etc. This rules out all but the most specialized industries.Protective PVC Films:
Low Tac Film
Our low tac film is a product specifically sourced for applications and users who only need surface protection during installation, with some fabrication taking place. The film is tough, yet easily removable by one person. On a project with 20 sheets, you will only spend 5 minutes instead of 2 hours with multiple people. On an installation with 75+ sheets that's taking place in the middle of winter or in a 110F facility, your crew will save many hours, and will enjoy the process, while the competition is struggling with the high tac laser films that are common from everyone else.
Laser Film
Our laser film is also specifically sourced to offer fiber and CO2 laser cutting capability while being as easy as possible to remove. Keep in mind it does need to have higher adhesion to ensure clean cuts, but compared to what you'll find from most suppliers, removal is also far easier. So, if you do require this film on a bigger job, you will still spend less time removing film, and it won't tear off in chunks like the competition.
Stainless Steel Surface Finishes Explained Clearly!
| Q: | What is the #4 Brushed Finish? |
| A: |
The #4 brushed finish is the most popular available today, and typically utilizes . There are various names for it including brushed, polished, satin, and sometimes even nickel finish. It's the de facto industry standard in commercial, industrial and residential applications where aesthetics and longevity are important. It's also the most consistent across batches and is easier to match when upgrading or adding to previous installations. The #4 brushed finish will never fade and is basically ageless, providing you keep it maintained. |
| Q: | What is the 2B Finish? |
| A: |
The 2B Finish is gray in color and somewhat reflective. It looks good initially, but is extremely difficult to keep pristine in applications where it will be handled and/or cleaned frequently. This has no effect on the performance or longevity of the product, but rather the aesthetics. Fingerprints, oils, and various liquids tend to stain the surface of the metal, resulting in uneven coloring and patches with different shades of gray. In addition, the 2B finish is done at the steel mill and may vary in color from batch to batch. |
| Q: | What is the BA Finish? |
| A: |
BA finish, or Bright Annealed finish is similar to a #8 mirror finish or a chrome finish. While quite uniform, the finish is done at the steel mill and may vary slightly from batch to batch of material. You'll find the BA finish on the inside of dishwashers, laundry machines, refrigerators, etc. The bright annealed finish is achieved by heating up and cooling (annealing) in a controlled environment. |
| Q: | Are Stainless Steel Surfaces Anti-Bacterial? |
| A: |
There is a common misconception about stainless steel being anti-bacterial, like copper, brass and bronze, but that is not the case. However, stainless steel is generally cost effective enough and durable enough to be cleaned and/or sterilized frequently without breaking down the surface or material. This is the reason for its popularity in everything from surgical instruments to restaurants. If it isn't destroyed by carelessness, including denting, abrading, drilling holes, etc, stainless steel will provide one of the longest-lasting and best looking finish options available. |
