THE STAINLESS STEEL ADVANTAGE IN FARMING

‍The farming industry is a critical sector of the global economy. It plays an essential role in feeding the world's population and supporting the livelihoods of millions of people. Equipment used in this industry is subjected to some of the harshest conditions, including exposure to corrosive elements and extreme temperatures. Steel is a popular material used in farming equipment and fasteners, but not all types of steel are created equal.

In this article, we will discuss the disadvantages of using mild steel or galvanized steel and the benefits of using stainless steel equipment and fasteners in the farming industry.  

Mild steel is a type of carbon steel that contains low levels of carbon, making it relatively soft and easy to work with. It is a popular material in the farming industry due to its affordability, availability, and ease of fabrication. However, mild steel has several disadvantages that make it unsuitable for certain applications in the farming industry. The most significant disadvantage of mild steel is how susceptible it is to corrosion. Mild steel will react with moisture and oxygen in the air and forms iron oxide, as we know it, rust. Rust can weaken the steel, causing it to fail prematurely. Rust can also contaminate crops and food, making it unsafe for consumption. Additionally, mild steel is prone to deformation and cracking under heavy loads and high temperatures, making it unsuitable for applications that require high strength and durability.  

Galvanized steel is mild steel that has been coated with a layer of zinc whose job it is to protect the steel below from corrosion. The zinc layer is a barrier between the steel and the environment, preventing moisture and oxygen from reaching the steel surface. Galvanized steel was traditionally used in the is farming industry due to its low cost and resistance to corrosion. However, galvanized steel also has several disadvantages that make it unsuitable for certain applications. Galvanized steel is prone to white rust, a type of corrosion that forms on the zinc layer when exposed to moisture. White rust can weaken the zinc layer, causing it to peel off, exposing the underlying steel to corrosion. Galvanized steel is also prone to cracking and brittleness at low temperatures, making it less suitable for use in cold climates. 

Stainless steel is a type of steel that contains chromium. This addition helps to form a thin, invisible layer of chromium oxide on the steel surface when exposed to air. This layer acts as a barrier between the steel and the environment, preventing moisture and oxygen from reaching the steel surface. Stainless steel is a popular in the agriculture due to its excellent corrosion resistance, strength, durability and ease of sanitation. Stainless steel is also non-reactive, meaning it does not contaminate crops and food, making it safe for consumption. Stainless steel is available in various grades, each with specific properties suited for different applications. For example, 316 stainless steel is a popular grade for use in corrosive environments such as coastal areas or areas with high salt content.  In addition to its corrosion resistance, stainless steel has several other benefits that make it a superior material for use in the farming industry. Stainless steel is non-porous and easy to clean and sanitize, making it suitable for use in food processing and storage applications.

Stainless steel is also aesthetically pleasing, making it a popular choice for architectural applications such as farm buildings and structures.  Stainless steel fasteners are also popular in the farming industry due to their superior strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. Stainless steel fasteners can withstand harsh environments and high loads without degrading or failing prematurely. A stainless steel nut can be easily removed after years of service. Not so with a regular bolt.  Stainless steel fasteners are also non-reactive, meaning they do not contaminate crops and food, making them safe for consumption. Stainless steel fasteners are available in various grades and configurations, each with specific properties suited for different applications. For example, 316 stainless steel fasteners are a popular choice for use in corrosive environments such as coastal areas or areas with high salt content. 

In conclusion, while mild steel and galvanized steel may be affordable and readily available, they come with several disadvantages that make them less than ideal for certain farming applications. Stainless steel, on the other hand, offers several benefits that make it an ideal choice for farming equipment and fasteners. Stainless steel's resistance to rust and corrosion, high strength-to-weight ratio, durability, and ease of cleaning, disinfecting and maintenance make it a cost-effective and safe choice for the farming industry.