316 Stainless Steel – Choosing the right materials for a Makefast marine grade system
Makefast have decades of experience working with 316 stainless steel and understand the benefits, not only in terms of aesthetic appeal but also strength, lifespan and recyclability. Makefast are rightly proud of the lengths they go to in ensuring you receive an industry leading, quality product.
Steel is an alloy of iron and a small percentage of carbon, the familiar red/orange stain that can be seen on steels in a marine environment are rust created by oxidation. Oxidation is an electro-chemical reaction between the moisture and oxygen reacting with the iron in the steel. The rust can occupy six times the volume of the original material so it is common to see it grow on the surface of the steel.
Rust is detrimental to the strength and performance of the steel and is very undesirable on a yacht, it not only detracts from the appearance of the metal but can also stain wood and grp too as well as hindering smooth operation.
In 1913, Harry Brearley of Sheffield, UK discovered ‘rustless’ steel by adding 12.8% chromium to molten iron, the chromium providing the resistance to corrosion. When stainless steel is exposed to oxygen a very thin, invisible layer of chromium oxide is formed on the surface protecting the steel from oxidation, even when scratched the chromium layer is replaced and continues to protect the steel.
There are a number of different types of stainless steel depending on the percentage of chromium contained in the steel and the addition of other materials including molybdenum, nickel, carbon and manganese however, to be termed stainless steel it must contain at least 10.5% chromium.
There are 4 main categories of stainless steel:-
- Austenitic – the most common types of stainless steels
- Ferritic – Commonly found in automotive applications, kitchenware and industrial equipment
- Duplex – Commonly used for chemical processing, oil and gas refining and pipelines
- Martensitic – Commonly found in surgical and dental instruments, cutlery and knives, screwdrivers and scissors
Austenitic is where you find the stainless steels you may be familiar with, including what is termed as ‘marine grade’ and it is the grade Makefast use in all applications due to its excellent corrosion resistant properties.
It doesn’t stop there however, as the name suggests stainless steel only stains less, seawater can still collect in pores and crevices on the surface of the material and over time penetrate the chromium oxide protection layer.
The surface finish of the material is also critical in ensuring a long life. Makefast mechanically polish the stainless steel to a mirror finish, even where the material is not visible, ensuring surface pitting and defects are removed or smoothed resulting in a surface finish that is less able to collect moisture.
Makefast employ a salt spray test regimen on all new developments to ensure they are fit for purpose and can state that, with proper care and maintenance, Makefasts stainless steel components can last many years depending on location and usage.
Get in TouchCanvas Sunroofs
Designed to provide maximum coverage for both cabin & flybridge boats
The Makefast canvas roof system has been the market leader for over 20 years. Smooth operation combined with low maintenance make it the perfect addition to any boat.
Using the highest quality materials, the Makefast canvas roof system is suitable for the harshest marine environments. Featuring friction-free cars and marine-grade 316 stainless steel components ensures it performs effortlessly, combining the ultimate in style and luxury.
