Why Does Stainless Steel Rust?

Whether power tools, cutlery, or appliance, our stainless steel assets are highly valuable to us. And although the name “stainless” implies that your steel will be tarnish-resistance, it is not. Instead, it is a chromium-based metal that can easily corrode if it is not properly maintained. So when you first see the signs of rust formation, it is only natural to feel disappointed and frustrated. But there is no need to worry about rusty stainless steel, because it can be removed and prevented using the proper methods.

Continue reading to learn what causes rust to form, as well as, how to remove rust from stainless steel.

Indianapolis Metal Recycling Center

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By understanding the process of rust formation on metal, particularly stainless steel, you can better protect your possessions from such tarnishing in the future. Rust formation on metal is known as oxidation, which fundamentally occurs as a result of oxygen exposure.

Rust Formation on Stainless Steel

In the case of stainless steel, when chromium is exposed to oxygen, it forms an invisible layer around the exterior known as chromium oxide. This layer of chromium oxide is actually an advantage, as it protects the outer surface of the steel from stains and you guessed it, rust. This is where lack of maintenance can become an issue. You see, when stainless steel is not properly cared for, this layer of chromium oxide will be prone to damage; and if it is damaged, it provides the opportunity for rust to form.

What can damage the chromium oxide layer? Using the wrong cleaners, such as ones that contain alcohol or other harsh chemical substances, can quickly rip the layer away. Solutions that contain ammonia or mineral spirits can also cause a significant amount of damage to the protective layering. I tis important to use the proper methods to clean your stainless steel to avoid jeopardizing the structural properties of your stainless steel.

How to Properly Care for Stainless Steel

All surfaces require daily, weekly, and periodic cleaning, and your stainless steel is no different. On a daily basis, you should be gently wiping the surface using a microfiber cloth and warm water. This will eliminate and manage dust, dirt, debris, and fingerprints.

For dirtier surfaces, or on a weekly basis, use a mild dish detergent and warm water to cleanse the metal. Then rinse with fresh water and dry thoroughly with a clean, dry rag. Store-bought stainless steel cleaners are also effective and safe.

On a periodic basis, such as every 3 to 6 months or so, it is wise to polish your stainless steel. This is especially important for appliances and fixtures, like refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, faucets, and sinks. Use can use a store-bought stainless steel polishers, such as disposable wipes or liquid solutions.

How to Remove Rust From Stainless Steel

To remove small or minor areas of rust from stainless steel, you will need 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 2 cups of warm water. Combine these two ingredients to make a paste, and then apply it to the affected area in the direction of the grain using a circular motion. Use a damp paper towel to rinse the area clean. For larger areas of rust, see our blog, “How to Clean Rusty Stainless Steel” for a full step-by-step instructional guide.

Recycle Stainless Steel Appliances in Indianapolis!

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Call Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 for information about appliance recycling in Indianapolis, Indiana. We pay cash on the spot for junk metal, including appliances, electronics, motorized vehicles, construction equipment, power tools, and more! Whether you need to get rid of an old fishing boat that no longer works or is worth repairing, or need to make money from a totaled car, we are the place to start! Request free estimates and information, anytime.

Beneficial Scrap Metal Recycling Tips

Indianapolis Metal Recycling Center 317-244-0700

Indianapolis Metal Recycling Center 317-244-0700

There are numerous benefits to scrap metal recycling. Cash profits, re-purposing old goods, and preserving natural resources all make the top of the list. Even better news is that all metals and metal alloys can be reprocessed, which makes finding some to recycle is easier than placing cash in your pocket! Continue reading to learn some valuable scrap metal recycling tips that can help you raise money and support a vital cause.

You Can Recycle All Metals and Alloys

All metals and their alloys can be melted down and reprocessed into new goods. Furthermore, there are endless commodities that contain metal, which means many possessions can be recycled and reused. Vehicles, motorized assets, appliances, electronics, furniture, power tools, sheet metal, metal art and décor, and more are just a small preview of examples of items that contain recyclable constituents.

Ferrous and Non-Ferrous

Metal is categorized into two different types: non-ferrous and ferrous. Ferrous metal contains iron, as the term “ferrous” literally means “containing iron.” This means that non-ferrous metals are those that do not contain iron. Non-iron alloys are the most popular to recycle because they are easy to haul in, and easy for the company to reuse.

Some examples of such metals include aluminum, copper, tin lead, zinc, nickel, and titanium. Even some alloys, such as brass, are categorized as non-ferrous. Some commodities that are made up from these minerals include batteries, soda cans, catalytic converters, compressors, and car wheels. The most popular recycled ferrous metal is steel, which is a carbon-containing iron alloy.

Choose Your Recycling Center Wisely

Take note that when it comes to recycling ferrous metal commodities, it is important to choose a scrap metal recycling center that retains the proper technologies and resources to process iron alloys. Not all scrap yards will accept ferrous metals for reasons of recycling. If you wish to recycle ferrous metals, such as steel, make sure you call ahead to ask a scrap yard if they recycle these kinds of materials. Some metal salvaging companies will accept prepared and unprepared steel; while others do not have the market to accept steel and iron alloys.

Helpful Hints for Metal Recycling

If you want to do your part and begin recycling within your community, the best place to start is right at home. Keep in mind the things you often use in your home already that are made of metal that can be recycled. Items such as soda cans, appliances, tools, tin foil, jewelry, and batteries are common metal goods people use every day. Next time you are spring cleaning, think about these types of materials you would normally consider trash, and recycle them instead.

Also, if you have large appliances you want to get rid of or trash, such as water heaters, washer and dryers, or lawn mowers, call a local Indianapolis scrap metal recycling center to see if they offer pick up services. This way you are still doing your part for the environment, without even breaking a sweat! They will haul away your metal commodity, and often times, pay you cash on the spot in return!

Once you figure out that recycling scrap metal can be easy, there is no end to the environmental contribution you can offer. There is no need to throw away old appliances, junk cars, electronics, soda cans, and any other metal-containing commodities, when they can all be reprocessed and reused. Just like all recycling, scrap metal recycling is infinitely beneficial to our planet.

Where to Recycle Scrap Metal for Cash

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Indianapolis Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Call Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 to recycle scrap metal and make some fast money at the same time. We are a professional Indianapolis scrap metal recycling center that accepts and recycles all metals in any condition. Best of all, we pay cash on the spot for them! Recycle all sorts of stuff, including sheet metal and beams, cars, boats, construction equipment, power tools, old electronics, and more! Request a free estimate, today.