Why Stainless Steel?

The use of stainless steel as a building material insures a high quality, virtually maintenance-free storage facility, and years of use. Bolted stainless steel tanks designed to meet AWWA standards have a product life expectancy of over 40 years. Stainless steel is durable, attractive, and resistant to corrosion; in contrast, mild steel is ferrous and will rust. Stainless steel tanks have a longer life expectancy than epoxy-coated or glass-lined tanks. They do not have to be repainted, re-gasketed or welded. Stainless steel has a residual value, which far exceeds that of other building materials. Stainless steel is strong, can be formed to meet individual preferences, is watertight, and is very resistant to cold weather. In addition, stainless is conducive to alteration without distortion.

Stainless steel is a combination of nickel, chromium, magnesium, and other alloys; this combination provides stainless steel's corrosion resistance and durability through passivation, which makes it an extremely attractive building material. Since there is no coating to scratch, chip, or wear off, stainless steel does not have the built-in disadvantages of coated steel.

Industry consolidation has also led to a lack of competition, which has significantly increased coated tank prices. In comparison, there is greater competition in the stainless steel market, which results in extremely competitive pricing between tanks constructed of stainless steel and tanks constructed of coated steel.

Stainless steel is widely accepted as a building material in many industries and by many regulatory agencies. Stainless is commonly used in the food processing industries because of its ability to meet FDA standards. As the population grows and the clamor for clean drinking water increases, the demand for stainless steel as a building material will also increase.

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