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Glossary

Stainless Steel Fabrication

The cutting, forming, and welding of stainless steel alloys for food-grade, hygienic, and corrosion-resistant applications.

Definition

What is Stainless Steel Fabrication?

Stainless steel fabrication uses the same fundamental metalworking processes as carbon steel, but requires specific techniques to preserve the alloy's corrosion resistance and surface quality. Contamination of the passive chromium oxide layer — through contact with carbon steel tools, improper grinding, or weld heat input — can cause corrosion in service. ATS Metal Fabrication maintains dedicated stainless steel processing areas, uses stainless-only tooling, and employs TIG welding with back-purging for critical food-grade and hygienic applications. Our stainless capability spans 304, 316/316L, 2B finish, #4 finish, and BA (bright annealed) material.

Types & Variants

  • • 304/304L (most common — general purpose)
  • • 316/316L (marine grade — superior chloride resistance)
  • • 430 (ferritic — magnetic, lower cost)
  • • Duplex and super-duplex (high strength, extreme environments)

Common Applications

  • • Commercial kitchen equipment and food processing
  • • Medical and pharmaceutical equipment
  • • Architectural cladding and features
  • • Chemical processing tanks and piping
  • • Coastal and marine structures

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel?
Type 304 contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel and covers the vast majority of stainless fabrication needs. Type 316 adds 2–3% molybdenum, significantly improving resistance to chloride pitting and crevice corrosion — essential for marine, coastal, and chemical environments, or anywhere chloride exposure is a concern.
What weld process is used for stainless steel fabrication?
TIG welding is the preferred process for sanitary and exposed stainless steel welds — it produces clean, low-spatter welds with minimal heat input to avoid sensitization. Back purging with argon on the reverse side prevents oxidation ('sugaring') of the weld root in critical applications. MIG welding is used for structural stainless where appearance is secondary.
What does NSF/ANSI compliance mean for stainless steel equipment?
NSF/ANSI standards (particularly NSF/ANSI 2 for food equipment) specify design, material, and finish requirements for food-contact surfaces. Compliant stainless steel must be smooth, non-porous, and cleanable — welds must be ground flush and free of pits or crevices. ATS Metal Fabrication's sanitary TIG welding and finishing processes support NSF-compliant food equipment fabrication.

Related Terms

See Also

TIG Welding (GTAW) Metal Fabrication Sheet Metal Fabrication CNC Laser Cutting

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