especially those related to carbon, water and air, are minimised. Reuse and recyclability are at high levels. �e material has low maintenance costs and a long life, both key indicators that the impact of the material on the planet is at the lowest levels possible. �e electric arc furnace( EAF), the main process used to make stainless steels, is extremely efficient. An EAF has a low impact on the environment in terms of both CO2 and other emissions. �e EAF is also extremely efficient at processing scrap stainless, ensuring that new stainless steel has an average recycled content of more than 60 %. Stainless steels are easily recycled to produce more stainless steels and this process can be carried on inde nitely. It is estimated that about 80 % of stainless steels are recycled at the end of their life. As stainless steel has a high intrinsic value, it is collected and recycled without any economic incentives from the public purse.
Pro t �e industries producing the material show long-term sustainability and growth, provide excellent reliability and quality for their customers, and ensure a solid and reliable supply-chain to the end consumer. Choosing stainless steel for an application ensures that it will have low maintenance costs, a long life and be easy to recycle at the end of that life. �is makes stainless an economical choice in consumer durables( such as refrigerators and washing machines) and in capital goods applications( such as transportation, chemical and process applications).
Stainless steels also have better mechanical properties than most metals. Its re and corrosion resistance make stainless a good choice in transportation, building or public works such as railways, subways, tunnels and bridges. �ese properties, together with stainless steels ' mechanical behaviour, are of prime importance in these applications to ensure human beings are protected and maintenance costs are kept low.
Stainless also has an aesthetically pleasing appearance, making it the material of choice in demanding architectural and design projects. Taking into account its recyclability, reuse, long life, low maintenance and product safety, the emissions from the production and use of stainless steels are minimal when compared to any other alternative material. For decades, stainless steel has helped dairy farmers keep the quality of their milk at the highest level. �is ensures safety in the food chain and pro tability for the dairy farmer. Stainless steels have a smooth, neutral surface which does not pick up tastes or smells. Stainless steels are extremely strong so they can withstand tough industrial environments. Today dairy equipment is made of stainless steels because it is easy to clean, disinfect and does not react with the lactic acids formed by fermenting milk.
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