Stainless steel and steel — two names for almost the same thing?
Stainless steel and steel might sound like two completely different materials, but the distinction is smaller than you might think. Stainless steel is simply steel that does not rust. Both are a form of steel. The difference lies in the composition. Ordinary steel consists primarily of iron and carbon. Stainless steel also contains chromium, and only a very small amount of carbon. It is that addition of chromium that gives the material its characteristic properties in terms of strength, hardness, and formability.
How do you tell the difference?
When the materials are new, they look virtually identical at first glance. Only over time do the differences become visible. Steel begins to develop brown rust spots, while stainless steel looks exactly the same as it did on day one.
An interesting detail: the name "stainless steel" is actually not entirely accurate. Stainless steel always has a thin oxide layer on its surface — a form of rust that is invisible because it is completely colourless. Paradoxically, it is precisely that layer that prevents the material from actually rusting.
What are the advantages?
Stainless steel has the longer list. It is durable, rust-resistant, weather-proof, and keeps its appearance for years. It is also well suited to made-to-measure production and gives a clean, timeless look in any interior. Steel has the advantage of being relatively lightweight with a high load-bearing capacity, but its susceptibility to rust makes it less suitable for long-term use.
What does Colorhanger recommend?
Colorhanger started with two people who had one goal in mind: making the perfect coat rack. The choice of stainless steel was an easy one. All our coat racks, clothes hangers, and shoe racks are made from stainless steel, because we believe you should invest in something you will enjoy for years to come.
Do you have questions about the material or about one of our products? Feel free to get in touch at 085-0473555 or info@colorhanger.com.
