Whether you work within the industrial or food field, you should know that there are materials such as vitrified steel, which represent a great option for a considerable number of applications. An example of this is pewter, whose physical characteristics make this material an alternative durable, resistant and low cost of production.
In case you’ve never heard of vitrified steel, you are in the right place! Here we will explore the definition, its use and you will be able to know some of its most outstanding characteristics.
Concept and definition of vitrified steel
This material is also known as vitreous enamel steel. It is a metal sheet based on carbon steel, which has a very thin coating. This coating, in general, is usually made of boron, aluminum or silicates, depending on the company that is in charge of manufacturing the vitrified steel. To obtain the final product, a process is carried out in which use high temperatures for metal casting.
It is worth mentioning that for the manufacture of vitrified steel, at least one sheet or layer of a special liquid is usually used. In fact, it is this that gives the final material its physical characteristics. However, they usually have more than one layer as a coating, and everything will depend on the applications that will be given to the vitrified steel. The temperatures of foundry usually exceeds 800° centigrade. All this without forgetting that this process has to be continuousso there is no moment of rest or interruption.
As additional information, the resulting material has certain properties that make it perfect for kitchen applications, to be used as an acrylic whiteboard and even to cover entire tunnels. He Vitrified steel is highly resistant to corrosionso its durability is quite high.
How is vitrified steel made?
Whether you want or plan to make vitrified steel to create gates under construction or kitchen items, the process, in theory, remains the same. There are some differences, such as the thickness of the enamel or vitrified layer, but they are, in reality, few variants. The usual process to obtain vitrified steel is the following:
- The first thing is to get the metal part steel based. Depending on the element you want to create, the process may take time or have some variations.
- After obtaining the steel-based article, a liquid layer is added to it. She manages to get her melting point between 840° and 850° centigrade.
- It spreads all the material through the article to vitrify to the point of obtaining a glossy finish, with color and texture.
- This thin layer provides great chemical resistancein addition to withstanding the heat at high temperatures.
- It is then allowed to cool and any excess material that remains is removed.
What is vitrified steel used for?
This versatile material has multiple uses depending on the area in which it is used. In general, it is usually related to pewter or enameled steel with the kitchen area. Between the applications that is given to vitrified steel are the following:
- Decorative motifs at home
Although it may not seem like it, there are many elements within a home that can be made with vitrified steel. Examples of these are vases, napkin rings, frames for portraits and paintings, among others.
- tunnel lining
In recent years it has been decided to line the tunnels with vitrified steel due to its great resistance and high capacity to withstand corrosion. The reason why this material is used is due to hostile conditions that exist in the tunnels.
- Kitchen items
This is one of the most common uses that can be given to vitrified steel. The main reason is due to its non-stick properties, which leads to a material that will not suffer from corrosion and, therefore, the food will not be negatively affected. For this reason, it is more practical and healthy to marinate food in a tray made of this material, so you will be calmer when eating. make a paella for your family.
Characteristics of vitrified steel
The layer of enamel that this material has gives you certain features to it, as well as certain advantages. Among the most notable points are the following:
- It has a high corrosion protectionthat is to say, that its wear as a function of time is almost zero.
- Its resistance to chemical agents is quite high.
- The surface is always clean and dirt is very easy to remove.
- Prevent mold from developing.
- does not burn no matter how high the temperature is.
