Stainless steel is a steel alloy that contains a minimum of 10.5% chromium content (by mass). Stainless steel does not stain, corrode, or rust as easily as ordinary steel, but it is not stain-proof or rush-proof.
Q1. Does stainless steel rust ?
Stainless steels contain sufficient chromium to form a passive film of chromium oxide, which prevents further surface corrosion and blocks it from spreading into the metal's internal structure.
If the chromium oxide film becomes damaged, surface rust will form. With an increase in the chromium content, greater resistance to the formation of rust is possible.
The enemy of all stainless steel is any prolonged exposure to chlorine, which is found in many household and industrial cleaners. Chlorine destroys the chrome oxide film and rust will form.
Q2. What can I do if I see rust spots on my stainless steel tools?
1. Determine what caused the rust and eliminate the cause.
2. Using oil and a clean cloth, remove the surface rust.
3. If the surface rust is extensive, return the tool to the factory to be reprocessed.
Q3. Why are my stainless steel tools magnetic?
Stainless steel used in hand tools contains lower amount of nickel (to increase machinability) and higher amount of carbon (to add strength) to the tools. These changes make the steel more magnetic.
Q4. What types of stainless steels are suitable for hand tools?
PPTC choose 400 series and 17-4 to make stainless steel tools. These types of stainless steel are with higher carbon than others.
Q5. How to maintain my stainless steel tools?
1. If used in a saltwater environment, rinse in fresh water and then thoroughly dry.
2. After each use, you are encouraged to wipe your tools with a clean cloth.
3. Keep stainless steel tools separated from CRV tools, to avoid any foreign material contamination, which could form rust.