Stainless
steel need not be cleaned for aesthetic considerations and to
preserve corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is protected from
corrosion by a thin layer of chromium oxide. Oxygen from the
atmosphere combines with the chromium in the stainless steel to form
this passive chromium oxide film that protects from further
corrosion. Any contamination of the surface by dirt, or other
materials, hinders this passivation process and traps corrosive
agents, reducing corrosion protection. Thus, some form of routine
cleaning is necessary to preserve the appearance and integrity of the
surface.
Stainless
steels are easily cleaned by many different methods. They actually
thrive with frequent cleaning, and, unlike some other materials, it
is impossible to “wear out” stainless steel by excessive
cleaning. The effect of surface / pattern roughness, grain / pattern
orientation, and designs that allow for maximum rain cleaning
(exterior applications) should be considered.
