There is so much more to stainless steel than the undeniable fact that is stainless and is made of steel! The reason it became known as stainless is because it is so resistant to corrosion. When stainless steel was invented in early part of the last century it marked a major breakthrough in steel production.

There are many advantages that stainless steel has compared to ordinary steel alloys.

Anti-Corrosive
Depending on the alloy mix, stainless steel can resist corrosion from ambient air, water and many chemicals, whether they be acid or alkaline. The amazing thing about stainless steel is that the added chromium forms a kind of skin - a protective layer on the surface - that prevents corrosion. Even if the surface of is damaged, this layer naturally reforms over time, resuming its protective role (as long as there is oxygen present).

Hygienic
Stainless steel is easy to clean. Because it is so resistant to corrosion the surface is usually very smooth and shiny, with no dirt traps or water traps. As there are no rough areas for dirt and germs to cling on to, few chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools and cloths are required. In many cases a wipe with a damp cloth is sufficient to clean a stainless steel surface.

High strength - Low Weight
Basic steel can be strong, but tends to be heavy. The relative strength and toughness of stainless steel compared to its weight is far superior. This can be vitally important in applications where these qualities are important (such as transportation).

Value for Money
Stainless steel costs more than ordinary steel. However, by taking into account its extended lifetime, it can be far more cost effective. Products that include stainless steel are often lifetime purchases, such as high class cutlery.

Good Looks
Very often the first choice when looks are important, stainless steel's smooth, shiny and clean appearance can greatly enhance most products.

100% Recyclable
Stainless steel can be recycled and will maintain its properties when formed into a new product.

There are other benefits of stainless steel, depending on the grade used. Generally, stainless steel is heat resistant and can withstand heavy impact.

Many of the qualities of stainless steel are found in other materials including some plastics. However, there is no one material that has all the attributes of stainless steel. This makes it unique. For instance, plastics will not (usually) corrode, but they will melt at high temperature. Other metals (and some plastics nowadays) can boast a good strength-to-weight ratio, but they cannot be easily recycled nor do they look as good.

For an example of effective use for stainless steel, look no further than the Insectocutor IP65 fly killer machine. It is strong and robust and will outlast any equivalent product. It is easy to clean and looks great. A product such as this exudes strength, performance and hygiene, which is what products such as fly killers are all about - and what stainless steel is all about.

Vernon Stent is the marketing consultant for Arkay Hygiene, retailers of fly killers such as the Stainless Steel IP65(IND65)