Stainless steel (commonly abbreviated as S/S) is generally defined as steel that contains at least 11.5% chromium and at least 50% iron. The invention of stainless steel can be dated back as far as the 1820s, but problems with brittleness meant that it was not until 1912 that the first modern variant of this steel was patented. Today there are hundreds of different grades of S/S and three main "families" (Austenitic - the original 1912 stainless, Martensitic, and Ferritic). There are also many "Duplex" grades of this specific type of steel, which is a mixture of different grades from each of two of the main three "families".
Stainless steel is not stain-proof as much as it is stain-resistant. "Stain less" steel will stand the test of time if the correct type with the correct finish is used in the correct application.
Stainless Steel Cookware
By far the most common type used in Australia and around the world is grade 304 (also known as grade A2) which is from the Austenitic "family". This accounts for some 57% of S/S used in Australia. This is the general indoor/outdoor type of stainless and is commonly used in cutlery, sinks, balustrades, door furniture, bins, fasteners, barbeques, pots and pans, chain, grab rails, handrails, towel rails, curtain rails, boat interiors, etc.
Type 304 stainless contains 0.06% carbon (for strength), 18.5% chromium (providing the passive oxide layer that gives S/S its corrosion resistance), and 9% nickel (for formability). This makes grade 304 stainless a very versatile material with many applications and uses.
Grade 304 stainless is generally non-magnetic, however, when cold worked, the area subjected to the cold-working can become slightly magnetic. Cold working also increases the strength of this specialised steel.
Whilst the initial cost of grade 304 stainless (and, indeed, all of this family of steels) is higher than other materials, because of its relatively low maintenance and its superior corrosion resistance, the long term costs for grade 304 stainless are in fact lower than for other materials. This means grade 304 stainless is, in the long run, good for the hip pocket.
Type 304 stainless is also 100% recyclable. In fact, the average stainless steel item consists of approximately 60% recycled stainless steel. So, grade 304 stainless is also good for the environment.
Grade 304 stainless, however, is unsuitable for marine or high pollution environments. For such applications, grade 316 stainless is recommended. Of course, the smoother the finish, the more corrosion resistant the steel will be.
Special Price!!! Cuisinart Chef's Classic Stainless 12-Inch Everyday Pan with Dome Cover
Nov 09, 2011 17:38:47
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Cuisinart Chef's Classic Stainless 12-Inch Everyday Pan with Dome Cover Feature
- 12-inch everyday pan made of 18/10 stainless steel with encapsulated aluminum core
- Side handles stay cool to the touch and come riveted for strength
- Stainless-steel dome-shaped lid helps keep in heat, moisture, and nutrients
- Dishwasher-safe for quick cleanup; oven-safe up to 550 degrees F
- Measures approximately 11-4/5 by 14-1/2 by 2-4/5 inches; limited lifetime warranty
Cuisinart Chef's Classic Stainless 12-Inch Everyday Pan with Dome Cover Overview
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