Dimensions - guide
Length = 100mm.
Spatula Blade width = 4mm.
Centre barrel diameter 1.60mm - 'micro'
Spatula Blade One end flat, other end at 45° angle.
Supplied in standard packs of 5.
For laboratory metalware consumables we use the finest in
corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel. Laboratory cleanliness and
stainless steel are closely related and, in many applications, each
is dependent upon the other and it’s the stainless steel providing
the degree of corrosion resistance that is necessary to prevent
product contamination.
It's quick to clean and has an attractive shiny appearance making
it the material of choice for applications requiring sterile
surfaces. It is immune to sterilizing solutions, most of the
organic chemicals and dyestuffs, and a wide variety of inorganic
chemicals.
Stainless steel is an extremely durable surface; it can, however,
be scratched or scuffed..
Stainless Steel 304
Stainless Steel 304 alternatively known as an 18/8 Alloy, is
designed for corrosion resistance and durability ideal in
laboratory routines. The 304 series stainless steels have
approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel and are non-magnetic. The
304 stainless steel is an optimal grade having superior corrosion
resistance when compared with the magnetic lower cost stainless
steels. This magnetic/non-magnetic property provides a quick test
to establish the quality of stainless steel.
How is it “stainless”
With a minimum of 12% chromium in the steel it makes it rust
resistant and known as stain 'less'. The chromium in the steel
combines with oxygen in the atmosphere to form a thin, invisible
layer of chrome-containing oxide, called the passive film. If the
metal is cut or scratched and the passive film is disrupted, more
oxide will quickly form and recover the exposed surface, protecting
it from corrosion. The passive film requires oxygen to self-repair,
so stainless steels have poor corrosion resistance in low-oxygen
conditions. Also chlorides will attack and destroy the passive
film.
The Quality of stainless steel
We demand good quality 304 stainless steel from traceable sources
ensuring its composition of chromium, meets specified levels, to
provide corrosion resistance for demanding laboratory applications.
Some stainless steels have high levels of sulphide impurities
reducing the chromium levels making them more vulnerable to
corrosion known as "pitting". This can lead to a contamination risk
in laboratory routines and procedures.
High-temperatures
Normal temperature range -196 to +550°C.
Suitable for intermittent use up to 870°C.
Continuous use of 304 in the 550-870°C range is not recommended
since its corrosion properties are affected leading to pitting. We
would suggest our nickel or zirconium product ranges for this
elevated temperature range.
Corrosion Resistance
Water
Stainless steel is, by itself, metallurgically incapable of rusting
in water. Tough Stains or the appearance of what looks like rust
are result of water-borne minerals or particles.
There may be occasions when "rust stains" appear but this is result
of iron particles from an outside source in water supply and can be
removed with cleaners containing oxalic acid such as Bar Keepers
Friend® or dilute solution containing phosphoric acid. Do not use
steel wool pads as they leave tiny particles that will develop into
rust spots.
Acids
Sulphuric
No corrosion resistance from dilute to concentrated amounts.
Hydrochloric
Chlorides pose high risk of pitting corrosion, depending on
concentrations.
Hydrofluoric
No corrosion resistance.
Phosphoric
Concentrations up to 80% at room temperature provide excellent
corrosion resistance. Increasing the concentration and raising the
temperature degrades stainless steel 304 corrosion performance.
Nitric
Solutions of Nitric with concentrations up to 60%, at room
temperature, provides excellent corrosion resistance. Increasing
the concentration and raising the temperature degrades stainless
steel corrosion performance.
Alkalis
Generally majority of alkali solutions do not affect stainless
steel.
Cleaning
Stainless steels need to be cleaned for aesthetic considerations
and to preserve corrosion resistance. Any contamination of the
surface by dirt, or other material, hinders the natural passivation
process and traps corrosive agents, thus reducing corrosion
protection. Some form of routine cleaning is necessary to preserve
the appearance and integrity of the surface and actually thrive
with frequent cleaning. Unlike some other materials, it is
impossible to “wear out” stainless steel by excessive cleaning.
Like any surface that is used it can get dirty which can consist of
accumulated dust and a variety of contaminates that come from many
sources in the laboratory. These contaminates will vary greatly in
their effect on appearance and corrosion effects. While some may be
easily removed, others may require specific cleaners for effective
removal and it may be necessary to identify the contaminate or
experiment with various cleaners. Frequently, warm water with or
without a gentle detergent is sufficient. Next in order are mild
non-scratching abrasive powders and general purpose cleaning
solutions. These can be used with warm water, bristle brushes,
sponges, or clean cloths.
Stainless steel metalware consumables can be autoclaved and
resistant to sanitizing agents for sterile applications.
Types of cleaners and methods
Clean Water and Wipe is the simplest method and stainless surfaces
thrive with frequent cleaning. A soft cloth and clean warm water
should always be the first choice for mild stains and loose dirt
and soils. A final rinse with clean water and a dry wipe will
complete the process and eliminate the possibility of water
stains.
Clifton Ultrasonic water baths can be useful providing a cleaning
process, using the ultrasonic activity, in a water based detergent
solution removing debris and dirt. A final rinse with clean water
and a dry wipe will complete the process and eliminate the
possibility of water stains.
Solvent Cleaning using Organic solvents can be used to remove fresh
debris, oils, chemicals that have not had time to oxidize or
decompose. The preferred solvent is one that does not contain
chlorine,
such as acetone, methyl alcohol, and mineral spirits. There are
many compounded or blended organic cleaners that are commercially
available. Cleaning can be accomplished by immersing smaller
articles directly into the solvent, wiping with solvent-impregnated
cloths, or vapor or spray methods..
Commercial Cleaners many commercial cleaners compounded from
phosphates, synthetic detergents, and alkalis are available for the
cleaning of severely soiled or stained stainless surfaces. When
used with a variety of cleaning methods, these cleaners can safely
provide effective cleaning. A neutral cleaner low in chloride is
preferred and must be rinsed thoroughly after cleaning. The fact
that the label states “for stainless steel” is no guarantee that
the product is suitable.
Do not use chloride-containing detergents or carbon steel or
wire wool brushes.
No accessories available for this product.
PDF File Product Literature
Dimensions - guide
Length = 130mm.
Spatula Blade width = 4mm.
Centre barrel diameter 1.60mm - 'micro'
Spatula Blade One end flat, other end at 45° angle.
Supplied in standard packs of 5.
For laboratory metalware consumables we use the finest in
corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel. Laboratory cleanliness and
stainless steel are closely related and, in many applications, each
is dependent upon the other and it’s the stainless steel providing
the degree of corrosion resistance that is necessary to prevent
product contamination.
It's quick to clean and has an attractive shiny appearance making
it the material of choice for applications requiring sterile
surfaces. It is immune to sterilizing solutions, most of the
organic chemicals and dyestuffs, and a wide variety of inorganic
chemicals.
Stainless steel is an extremely durable surface; it can, however,
be scratched or scuffed..
Stainless Steel 304
Stainless Steel 304 alternatively known as an 18/8 Alloy, is
designed for corrosion resistance and durability ideal in
laboratory routines. The 304 series stainless steels have
approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel and are non-magnetic. The
304 stainless steel is an optimal grade having superior corrosion
resistance when compared with the magnetic lower cost stainless
steels. This magnetic/non-magnetic property provides a quick test
to establish the quality of stainless steel.
How is it “stainless”
With a minimum of 12% chromium in the steel it makes it rust
resistant and known as stain 'less'. The chromium in the steel
combines with oxygen in the atmosphere to form a thin, invisible
layer of chrome-containing oxide, called the passive film. If the
metal is cut or scratched and the passive film is disrupted, more
oxide will quickly form and recover the exposed surface, protecting
it from corrosion. The passive film requires oxygen to self-repair,
so stainless steels have poor corrosion resistance in low-oxygen
conditions. Also chlorides will attack and destroy the passive
film.
The Quality of stainless steel
We demand good quality 304 stainless steel from traceable sources
ensuring its composition of chromium, meets specified levels, to
provide corrosion resistance for demanding laboratory applications.
Some stainless steels have high levels of sulphide impurities
reducing the chromium levels making them more vulnerable to
corrosion known as "pitting". This can lead to a contamination risk
in laboratory routines and procedures.
High-temperatures
Normal temperature range -196 to +550°C.
Suitable for intermittent use up to 870°C.
Continuous use of 304 in the 550-870°C range is not recommended
since its corrosion properties are affected leading to pitting. We
would suggest our nickel or zirconium product ranges for this
elevated temperature range.
Corrosion Resistance
Water
Stainless steel is, by itself, metallurgically incapable of rusting
in water. Tough Stains or the appearance of what looks like rust
are result of water-borne minerals or particles.
There may be occasions when "rust stains" appear but this is result
of iron particles from an outside source in water supply and can be
removed with cleaners containing oxalic acid such as Bar Keepers
Friend® or dilute solution containing phosphoric acid. Do not use
steel wool pads as they leave tiny particles that will develop into
rust spots.
Acids
Sulphuric
No corrosion resistance from dilute to concentrated amounts.
Hydrochloric
Chlorides pose high risk of pitting corrosion, depending on
concentrations.
Hydrofluoric
No corrosion resistance.
Phosphoric
Concentrations up to 80% at room temperature provide excellent
corrosion resistance. Increasing the concentration and raising the
temperature degrades stainless steel 304 corrosion performance.
Nitric
Solutions of Nitric with concentrations up to 60%, at room
temperature, provides excellent corrosion resistance. Increasing
the concentration and raising the temperature degrades stainless
steel corrosion performance.
Alkalis
Generally majority of alkali solutions do not affect stainless
steel.
Cleaning
Stainless steels need to be cleaned for aesthetic considerations
and to preserve corrosion resistance. Any contamination of the
surface by dirt, or other material, hinders the natural passivation
process and traps corrosive agents, thus reducing corrosion
protection. Some form of routine cleaning is necessary to preserve
the appearance and integrity of the surface and actually thrive
with frequent cleaning. Unlike some other materials, it is
impossible to “wear out” stainless steel by excessive cleaning.
Like any surface that is used it can get dirty which can consist of
accumulated dust and a variety of contaminates that come from many
sources in the laboratory. These contaminates will vary greatly in
their effect on appearance and corrosion effects. While some may be
easily removed, others may require specific cleaners for effective
removal and it may be necessary to identify the contaminate or
experiment with various cleaners. Frequently, warm water with or
without a gentle detergent is sufficient. Next in order are mild
non-scratching abrasive powders and general purpose cleaning
solutions. These can be used with warm water, bristle brushes,
sponges, or clean cloths.
Stainless steel metalware consumables can be autoclaved and
resistant to sanitizing agents for sterile applications.
Types of cleaners and methods
Clean Water and Wipe is the simplest method and stainless surfaces
thrive with frequent cleaning. A soft cloth and clean warm water
should always be the first choice for mild stains and loose dirt
and soils. A final rinse with clean water and a dry wipe will
complete the process and eliminate the possibility of water
stains.
Clifton Ultrasonic water baths can be useful providing a cleaning
process, using the ultrasonic activity, in a water based detergent
solution removing debris and dirt. A final rinse with clean water
and a dry wipe will complete the process and eliminate the
possibility of water stains.
Solvent Cleaning using Organic solvents can be used to remove fresh
debris, oils, chemicals that have not had time to oxidize or
decompose. The preferred solvent is one that does not contain
chlorine,
such as acetone, methyl alcohol, and mineral spirits. There are
many compounded or blended organic cleaners that are commercially
available. Cleaning can be accomplished by immersing smaller
articles directly into the solvent, wiping with solvent-impregnated
cloths, or vapor or spray methods..
Commercial Cleaners many commercial cleaners compounded from
phosphates, synthetic detergents, and alkalis are available for the
cleaning of severely soiled or stained stainless surfaces. When
used with a variety of cleaning methods, these cleaners can safely
provide effective cleaning. A neutral cleaner low in chloride is
preferred and must be rinsed thoroughly after cleaning. The fact
that the label states “for stainless steel” is no guarantee that
the product is suitable.
Do not use chloride-containing detergents or carbon steel or
wire wool brushes.
No accessories available for this product.
PDF File Product Literature
Dimensions - guide
Length = 150mm.
Spatula Blade width = 4mm.
Centre barrel diameter 1.60mm - 'micro'
Spatula Blade One end flat, other end at 45° angle.
Supplied in standard packs of 5.
For laboratory metalware consumables we use the finest in
corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel. Laboratory cleanliness and
stainless steel are closely related and, in many applications, each
is dependent upon the other and it’s the stainless steel providing
the degree of corrosion resistance that is necessary to prevent
product contamination.
It's quick to clean and has an attractive shiny appearance making
it the material of choice for applications requiring sterile
surfaces. It is immune to sterilizing solutions, most of the
organic chemicals and dyestuffs, and a wide variety of inorganic
chemicals.
Stainless steel is an extremely durable surface; it can, however,
be scratched or scuffed..
Stainless Steel 304
Stainless Steel 304 alternatively known as an 18/8 Alloy, is
designed for corrosion resistance and durability ideal in
laboratory routines. The 304 series stainless steels have
approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel and are non-magnetic. The
304 stainless steel is an optimal grade having superior corrosion
resistance when compared with the magnetic lower cost stainless
steels. This magnetic/non-magnetic property provides a quick test
to establish the quality of stainless steel.
How is it “stainless”
With a minimum of 12% chromium in the steel it makes it rust
resistant and known as stain 'less'. The chromium in the steel
combines with oxygen in the atmosphere to form a thin, invisible
layer of chrome-containing oxide, called the passive film. If the
metal is cut or scratched and the passive film is disrupted, more
oxide will quickly form and recover the exposed surface, protecting
it from corrosion. The passive film requires oxygen to self-repair,
so stainless steels have poor corrosion resistance in low-oxygen
conditions. Also chlorides will attack and destroy the passive
film.
The Quality of stainless steel
We demand good quality 304 stainless steel from traceable sources
ensuring its composition of chromium, meets specified levels, to
provide corrosion resistance for demanding laboratory applications.
Some stainless steels have high levels of sulphide impurities
reducing the chromium levels making them more vulnerable to
corrosion known as "pitting". This can lead to a contamination risk
in laboratory routines and procedures.
High-temperatures
Normal temperature range -196 to +550°C.
Suitable for intermittent use up to 870°C.
Continuous use of 304 in the 550-870°C range is not recommended
since its corrosion properties are affected leading to pitting. We
would suggest our nickel or zirconium product ranges for this
elevated temperature range.
Corrosion Resistance
Water
Stainless steel is, by itself, metallurgically incapable of rusting
in water. Tough Stains or the appearance of what looks like rust
are result of water-borne minerals or particles.
There may be occasions when "rust stains" appear but this is result
of iron particles from an outside source in water supply and can be
removed with cleaners containing oxalic acid such as Bar Keepers
Friend® or dilute solution containing phosphoric acid. Do not use
steel wool pads as they leave tiny particles that will develop into
rust spots.
Acids
Sulphuric
No corrosion resistance from dilute to concentrated amounts.
Hydrochloric
Chlorides pose high risk of pitting corrosion, depending on
concentrations.
Hydrofluoric
No corrosion resistance.
Phosphoric
Concentrations up to 80% at room temperature provide excellent
corrosion resistance. Increasing the concentration and raising the
temperature degrades stainless steel 304 corrosion performance.
Nitric
Solutions of Nitric with concentrations up to 60%, at room
temperature, provides excellent corrosion resistance. Increasing
the concentration and raising the temperature degrades stainless
steel corrosion performance.
Alkalis
Generally majority of alkali solutions do not affect stainless
steel.
Cleaning
Stainless steels need to be cleaned for aesthetic considerations
and to preserve corrosion resistance. Any contamination of the
surface by dirt, or other material, hinders the natural passivation
process and traps corrosive agents, thus reducing corrosion
protection. Some form of routine cleaning is necessary to preserve
the appearance and integrity of the surface and actually thrive
with frequent cleaning. Unlike some other materials, it is
impossible to “wear out” stainless steel by excessive cleaning.
Like any surface that is used it can get dirty which can consist of
accumulated dust and a variety of contaminates that come from many
sources in the laboratory. These contaminates will vary greatly in
their effect on appearance and corrosion effects. While some may be
easily removed, others may require specific cleaners for effective
removal and it may be necessary to identify the contaminate or
experiment with various cleaners. Frequently, warm water with or
without a gentle detergent is sufficient. Next in order are mild
non-scratching abrasive powders and general purpose cleaning
solutions. These can be used with warm water, bristle brushes,
sponges, or clean cloths.
Stainless steel metalware consumables can be autoclaved and
resistant to sanitizing agents for sterile applications.
Types of cleaners and methods
Clean Water and Wipe is the simplest method and stainless surfaces
thrive with frequent cleaning. A soft cloth and clean warm water
should always be the first choice for mild stains and loose dirt
and soils. A final rinse with clean water and a dry wipe will
complete the process and eliminate the possibility of water
stains.
Clifton Ultrasonic water baths can be useful providing a cleaning
process, using the ultrasonic activity, in a water based detergent
solution removing debris and dirt. A final rinse with clean water
and a dry wipe will complete the process and eliminate the
possibility of water stains.
Solvent Cleaning using Organic solvents can be used to remove fresh
debris, oils, chemicals that have not had time to oxidize or
decompose. The preferred solvent is one that does not contain
chlorine,
such as acetone, methyl alcohol, and mineral spirits. There are
many compounded or blended organic cleaners that are commercially
available. Cleaning can be accomplished by immersing smaller
articles directly into the solvent, wiping with solvent-impregnated
cloths, or vapor or spray methods..
Commercial Cleaners many commercial cleaners compounded from
phosphates, synthetic detergents, and alkalis are available for the
cleaning of severely soiled or stained stainless surfaces. When
used with a variety of cleaning methods, these cleaners can safely
provide effective cleaning. A neutral cleaner low in chloride is
preferred and must be rinsed thoroughly after cleaning. The fact
that the label states “for stainless steel” is no guarantee that
the product is suitable.
Do not use chloride-containing detergents or carbon steel or
wire wool brushes.
No accessories available for this product.
PDF File Product Literature
Dimensions - guide
Length = 180mm.
Spatula Blade width = 4mm.
Centre barrel diameter 1.60mm - 'micro'
Spatula Blade One end flat, other end at 45° angle.
Supplied in standard packs of 5.
For laboratory metalware consumables we use the finest in
corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel. Laboratory cleanliness and
stainless steel are closely related and, in many applications, each
is dependent upon the other and it’s the stainless steel providing
the degree of corrosion resistance that is necessary to prevent
product contamination.
It's quick to clean and has an attractive shiny appearance making
it the material of choice for applications requiring sterile
surfaces. It is immune to sterilizing solutions, most of the
organic chemicals and dyestuffs, and a wide variety of inorganic
chemicals.
Stainless steel is an extremely durable surface; it can, however,
be scratched or scuffed..
Stainless Steel 304
Stainless Steel 304 alternatively known as an 18/8 Alloy, is
designed for corrosion resistance and durability ideal in
laboratory routines. The 304 series stainless steels have
approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel and are non-magnetic. The
304 stainless steel is an optimal grade having superior corrosion
resistance when compared with the magnetic lower cost stainless
steels. This magnetic/non-magnetic property provides a quick test
to establish the quality of stainless steel.
How is it “stainless”
With a minimum of 12% chromium in the steel it makes it rust
resistant and known as stain 'less'. The chromium in the steel
combines with oxygen in the atmosphere to form a thin, invisible
layer of chrome-containing oxide, called the passive film. If the
metal is cut or scratched and the passive film is disrupted, more
oxide will quickly form and recover the exposed surface, protecting
it from corrosion. The passive film requires oxygen to self-repair,
so stainless steels have poor corrosion resistance in low-oxygen
conditions. Also chlorides will attack and destroy the passive
film.
The Quality of stainless steel
We demand good quality 304 stainless steel from traceable sources
ensuring its composition of chromium, meets specified levels, to
provide corrosion resistance for demanding laboratory applications.
Some stainless steels have high levels of sulphide impurities
reducing the chromium levels making them more vulnerable to
corrosion known as "pitting". This can lead to a contamination risk
in laboratory routines and procedures.
High-temperatures
Normal temperature range -196 to +550°C.
Suitable for intermittent use up to 870°C.
Continuous use of 304 in the 550-870°C range is not recommended
since its corrosion properties are affected leading to pitting. We
would suggest our nickel or zirconium product ranges for this
elevated temperature range.
Corrosion Resistance
Water
Stainless steel is, by itself, metallurgically incapable of rusting
in water. Tough Stains or the appearance of what looks like rust
are result of water-borne minerals or particles.
There may be occasions when "rust stains" appear but this is result
of iron particles from an outside source in water supply and can be
removed with cleaners containing oxalic acid such as Bar Keepers
Friend® or dilute solution containing phosphoric acid. Do not use
steel wool pads as they leave tiny particles that will develop into
rust spots.
Acids
Sulphuric
No corrosion resistance from dilute to concentrated amounts.
Hydrochloric
Chlorides pose high risk of pitting corrosion, depending on
concentrations.
Hydrofluoric
No corrosion resistance.
Phosphoric
Concentrations up to 80% at room temperature provide excellent
corrosion resistance. Increasing the concentration and raising the
temperature degrades stainless steel 304 corrosion performance.
Nitric
Solutions of Nitric with concentrations up to 60%, at room
temperature, provides excellent corrosion resistance. Increasing
the concentration and raising the temperature degrades stainless
steel corrosion performance.
Alkalis
Generally majority of alkali solutions do not affect stainless
steel.
Cleaning
Stainless steels need to be cleaned for aesthetic considerations
and to preserve corrosion resistance. Any contamination of the
surface by dirt, or other material, hinders the natural passivation
process and traps corrosive agents, thus reducing corrosion
protection. Some form of routine cleaning is necessary to preserve
the appearance and integrity of the surface and actually thrive
with frequent cleaning. Unlike some other materials, it is
impossible to “wear out” stainless steel by excessive cleaning.
Like any surface that is used it can get dirty which can consist of
accumulated dust and a variety of contaminates that come from many
sources in the laboratory. These contaminates will vary greatly in
their effect on appearance and corrosion effects. While some may be
easily removed, others may require specific cleaners for effective
removal and it may be necessary to identify the contaminate or
experiment with various cleaners. Frequently, warm water with or
without a gentle detergent is sufficient. Next in order are mild
non-scratching abrasive powders and general purpose cleaning
solutions. These can be used with warm water, bristle brushes,
sponges, or clean cloths.
Stainless steel metalware consumables can be autoclaved and
resistant to sanitizing agents for sterile applications.
Types of cleaners and methods
Clean Water and Wipe is the simplest method and stainless surfaces
thrive with frequent cleaning. A soft cloth and clean warm water
should always be the first choice for mild stains and loose dirt
and soils. A final rinse with clean water and a dry wipe will
complete the process and eliminate the possibility of water
stains.
Clifton Ultrasonic water baths can be useful providing a cleaning
process, using the ultrasonic activity, in a water based detergent
solution removing debris and dirt. A final rinse with clean water
and a dry wipe will complete the process and eliminate the
possibility of water stains.
Solvent Cleaning using Organic solvents can be used to remove fresh
debris, oils, chemicals that have not had time to oxidize or
decompose. The preferred solvent is one that does not contain
chlorine,
such as acetone, methyl alcohol, and mineral spirits. There are
many compounded or blended organic cleaners that are commercially
available. Cleaning can be accomplished by immersing smaller
articles directly into the solvent, wiping with solvent-impregnated
cloths, or vapor or spray methods..
Commercial Cleaners many commercial cleaners compounded from
phosphates, synthetic detergents, and alkalis are available for the
cleaning of severely soiled or stained stainless surfaces. When
used with a variety of cleaning methods, these cleaners can safely
provide effective cleaning. A neutral cleaner low in chloride is
preferred and must be rinsed thoroughly after cleaning. The fact
that the label states “for stainless steel” is no guarantee that
the product is suitable.
Do not use chloride-containing detergents or carbon steel or
wire wool brushes.
No accessories available for this product.
PDF File Product Literature
Dimensions - guide
Length = 200mm.
Spatula Blade width = 4mm.
Centre barrel diameter 1.60mm - 'micro'
Spatula Blade One end flat, other end at 45° angle.
Supplied in standard packs of 5.
For laboratory metalware consumables we use the finest in
corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel. Laboratory cleanliness and
stainless steel are closely related and, in many applications, each
is dependent upon the other and it’s the stainless steel providing
the degree of corrosion resistance that is necessary to prevent
product contamination.
It's quick to clean and has an attractive shiny appearance making
it the material of choice for applications requiring sterile
surfaces. It is immune to sterilizing solutions, most of the
organic chemicals and dyestuffs, and a wide variety of inorganic
chemicals.
Stainless steel is an extremely durable surface; it can, however,
be scratched or scuffed..
Stainless Steel 304
Stainless Steel 304 alternatively known as an 18/8 Alloy, is
designed for corrosion resistance and durability ideal in
laboratory routines. The 304 series stainless steels have
approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel and are non-magnetic. The
304 stainless steel is an optimal grade having superior corrosion
resistance when compared with the magnetic lower cost stainless
steels. This magnetic/non-magnetic property provides a quick test
to establish the quality of stainless steel.
How is it “stainless”
With a minimum of 12% chromium in the steel it makes it rust
resistant and known as stain 'less'. The chromium in the steel
combines with oxygen in the atmosphere to form a thin, invisible
layer of chrome-containing oxide, called the passive film. If the
metal is cut or scratched and the passive film is disrupted, more
oxide will quickly form and recover the exposed surface, protecting
it from corrosion. The passive film requires oxygen to self-repair,
so stainless steels have poor corrosion resistance in low-oxygen
conditions. Also chlorides will attack and destroy the passive
film.
The Quality of stainless steel
We demand good quality 304 stainless steel from traceable sources
ensuring its composition of chromium, meets specified levels, to
provide corrosion resistance for demanding laboratory applications.
Some stainless steels have high levels of sulphide impurities
reducing the chromium levels making them more vulnerable to
corrosion known as "pitting". This can lead to a contamination risk
in laboratory routines and procedures.
High-temperatures
Normal temperature range -196 to +550°C.
Suitable for intermittent use up to 870°C.
Continuous use of 304 in the 550-870°C range is not recommended
since its corrosion properties are affected leading to pitting. We
would suggest our nickel or zirconium product ranges for this
elevated temperature range.
Corrosion Resistance
Water
Stainless steel is, by itself, metallurgically incapable of rusting
in water. Tough Stains or the appearance of what looks like rust
are result of water-borne minerals or particles.
There may be occasions when "rust stains" appear but this is result
of iron particles from an outside source in water supply and can be
removed with cleaners containing oxalic acid such as Bar Keepers
Friend® or dilute solution containing phosphoric acid. Do not use
steel wool pads as they leave tiny particles that will develop into
rust spots.
Acids
Sulphuric
No corrosion resistance from dilute to concentrated amounts.
Hydrochloric
Chlorides pose high risk of pitting corrosion, depending on
concentrations.
Hydrofluoric
No corrosion resistance.
Phosphoric
Concentrations up to 80% at room temperature provide excellent
corrosion resistance. Increasing the concentration and raising the
temperature degrades stainless steel 304 corrosion performance.
Nitric
Solutions of Nitric with concentrations up to 60%, at room
temperature, provides excellent corrosion resistance. Increasing
the concentration and raising the temperature degrades stainless
steel corrosion performance.
Alkalis
Generally majority of alkali solutions do not affect stainless
steel.
Cleaning
Stainless steels need to be cleaned for aesthetic considerations
and to preserve corrosion resistance. Any contamination of the
surface by dirt, or other material, hinders the natural passivation
process and traps corrosive agents, thus reducing corrosion
protection. Some form of routine cleaning is necessary to preserve
the appearance and integrity of the surface and actually thrive
with frequent cleaning. Unlike some other materials, it is
impossible to “wear out” stainless steel by excessive cleaning.
Like any surface that is used it can get dirty which can consist of
accumulated dust and a variety of contaminates that come from many
sources in the laboratory. These contaminates will vary greatly in
their effect on appearance and corrosion effects. While some may be
easily removed, others may require specific cleaners for effective
removal and it may be necessary to identify the contaminate or
experiment with various cleaners. Frequently, warm water with or
without a gentle detergent is sufficient. Next in order are mild
non-scratching abrasive powders and general purpose cleaning
solutions. These can be used with warm water, bristle brushes,
sponges, or clean cloths.
Stainless steel metalware consumables can be autoclaved and
resistant to sanitizing agents for sterile applications.
Types of cleaners and methods
Clean Water and Wipe is the simplest method and stainless surfaces
thrive with frequent cleaning. A soft cloth and clean warm water
should always be the first choice for mild stains and loose dirt
and soils. A final rinse with clean water and a dry wipe will
complete the process and eliminate the possibility of water
stains.
Clifton Ultrasonic water baths can be useful providing a cleaning
process, using the ultrasonic activity, in a water based detergent
solution removing debris and dirt. A final rinse with clean water
and a dry wipe will complete the process and eliminate the
possibility of water stains.
Solvent Cleaning using Organic solvents can be used to remove fresh
debris, oils, chemicals that have not had time to oxidize or
decompose. The preferred solvent is one that does not contain
chlorine,
such as acetone, methyl alcohol, and mineral spirits. There are
many compounded or blended organic cleaners that are commercially
available. Cleaning can be accomplished by immersing smaller
articles directly into the solvent, wiping with solvent-impregnated
cloths, or vapor or spray methods..
Commercial Cleaners many commercial cleaners compounded from
phosphates, synthetic detergents, and alkalis are available for the
cleaning of severely soiled or stained stainless surfaces. When
used with a variety of cleaning methods, these cleaners can safely
provide effective cleaning. A neutral cleaner low in chloride is
preferred and must be rinsed thoroughly after cleaning. The fact
that the label states “for stainless steel” is no guarantee that
the product is suitable.
Do not use chloride-containing detergents or carbon steel or
wire wool brushes.
No accessories available for this product.
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