About Materials

Silicone

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A silicone or polysiloxane is a polymer composed of repeating units of siloxane.  They are typically colorless oils or rubber-like substances. Silicones are used in sealants, adhesives, lubricants, medicine, cooking utensils, thermal insulation, and electrical insulationn.

Silicones exhibit many useful characteristics, including:

·        Low thermal conductivity

·        Low chemical reactivity

·        Low toxicity

·        Thermal stability (constancy of properties over a wide temperature range of −100 to 250 °C)

·        The ability to repel water and form watertight seals.

·        Does not stick to many substrates, but adheres very well to others, e.g. glass

·        Does not support microbiological growth

·        Electrical insulation properties. Because silicone can be formulated to be electrically insulative or conductive, it is suitable for a wide range of electrical applications.

Cookware

As a low-taint, non-toxic material, silicone can be used where contact with food is required. Silicone is becoming an important product in the cookware industry, particularly bakeware and kitchen utensils. Silicone is used as an insulator in heat-resistant potholders and similar items; however, it is more conductive of heat than similar less dense fiber-based products. Silicone oven mitts are able to withstand temperatures up to 260 °C (500 °F), making it possible to reach into boiling water.

Other products include molds for chocolate, ice, cookies, muffins, and various other foods; non-stick bakeware and reusable mats used on baking sheets; steamers, egg boilers or poachers; cookware lids, pot holders, trivets, and kitchen mats.

Stainless Steel

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Stainless steel, also known as inox, corrosion-resistant steel (CRES) and rustless steel, is an alloy of iron that is resistant to rusting and corrosion. It contains at least 10.5% chromium and usually nickel, as well as 0.2 to 2.11% carbon. Stainless steel's resistance to corrosion results from the chromium, which forms a passive film that can protect the material and self-heal in the presence of oxygen.

The alloy's properties, such as luster and resistance to corrosion, are useful in many applications. Stainless steel can be rolled into sheets, plates, bars, wire, and tubing. These can be used in cookware, cutlery, surgical instruments, major appliances, vehicles, construction material in large buildings, industrial equipment (e.g., in paper mills, chemical plants, water treatment), and storage tanks and tankers for chemicals and food products.

The biological cleanability of stainless steel is superior to both aluminium and copper, and comparable to glass. Its cleanability, strength, and corrosion resistance have prompted the use of stainless steel in pharmaceutical and food processing plants.

201 vs 304 Stainless Steel

When comparing 201 stainless steel to 304 stainless steel, it’s essential to understand their differences. Let’s break it down:

1. Composition:

   • 201 Stainless Steel:

     • Contains 15% chromium and 5% nickel.

     • Designed to be strong, durable, and cost-effective.

     • Higher manganese content for enhanced strength.

     • Low carbon content (0.15%) prevents carbide precipitation during welding or heat treatments.

   • 304 Stainless Steel:

     • Composed primarily of 18% chromium and 8% nickel.

     • Also contains small amounts of molybdenum, titanium, nitrogen, silicon, copper, selenium, and carbon.

     • Excellent heat resistivity up to 1500°F (816°C).

     • Superior resistance against pitting corrosion caused by chlorides.

2. Cost:

   • 201 stainless steel is typically more affordable than 304 stainless steel.

   • Both types are more expensive than carbon steel.

3. Uses:

   • 201 stainless steel l:

     • Commonly used in food service applications, such as restaurant equipment, kitchen utensils, and storage containers.

     • Also found in some medical applications, like surgical instruments and hospital beds.

   • 304 stainless steel:

     • Widely used in industrial applications, including chemical storage tanks and food processing equipment.

4. Durability:

   • Both 201 and 304 stainless steel are durable materials.

In summary, choose 201 stainless steel when cost-effectiveness and moderate corrosion resistance are sufficient. Opt for 304 stainless steel when broader applications and higher overall cost-effectiveness are desired.