42 TECHNICAL
Steyn added , “ The protection of the stainless-steel operation goes as far as recommending the establishment of dedicated stainless steel working bays and separate storage facilities for materials and components that are specifically designed for stainless steel operations . A clean environment as well as ensuring the stainless steel itself is clean , by using dedicated cleaning agents , is recommended ”.
“ Similarly , it is important to select grinding tools without any ferrous , chlorinated or sulphurous fillers . Wire brushes with stainless steel or Silicon Carbide ( SiC ) filaments are specifically designed to be stainless steel compatible ,” said Steyn , adding , “ We have conducted an enormous amount of research into stainless steel best working practice , which is readily available on our website .”
Tool Selection Factors that play a role in the correct tool selection for stainless steel use include dimensions of the surface and its condition , accessibility , the result required as well as the application method .
Small and tight spaces require different tools compared to surfaces that are more accessible . The cleaning and smoothing of a steel weld seam require completely different tools to those used for brush matting or finishing of stainless steel .
Achieving a mirror finish is one of the more demanding requests as mechanical scratches should be removed and the surface structured systematically .
Technological advances in grinding and polishing tools for INOX help eliminate many of the material ’ s challenges . Heat discolouration in the grinding area , which occurs due to stainless steel being a bad conductor of heat , can alter the metal ’ s metallurgical compound and reduce its corrosion resistance .
Steyn further adds , “ The cutting of stainless steel is optimised with the use of our high-performance thin cut-off wheels . These 1mm wheels cut faster , thereby producing less heat and heat discolouration . Burr formation is also minimised which in turn requires less rework to remove ”.
PFERD Tungsten Carbide burrs with INOX cut offer an extremely high stock removal rate thanks to its innovative tooth geometry leading to significantly less heat , heat discolouration and vibration .
The company is available to assess your application and provide you with the optimum product and machine combination to ensure the ideal and most cost-effective solution . PA
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www . plumbingafrica . co . za @ plumbingonline @ plumbingonline @ PlumbingAfricaOnline February 2022 Volume 27 I Number 12