Stainless steel, also known as inox, corrosion-resistant steel (CRES) and rustless steel, is an essential choice in many sectors thanks to its impeccable brilliance and strength.

Its exceptional durability and timeless elegance make it a popular choice that combines style and functionality.

Contents :

1. Where does stainless steel material come from?
2. In what industries is stainless steel material used?
3. What are the stainless material properties?
4. Are there different types of stainless steel and how are they classified?
5. What products are made from stainless steel?
6. What are the best marking techniques for personalising stainless steel?
7. What is the difference between stainless steel, carbon steel and aluminium?
8. How much does stainless steel cost?
9. To conclude

Is a special type of steel that contains a minimum amount of chromium in its composition. Unlike ordinary steel, inox has unique properties that protect it from corrosion and give it a shiny, hard-wearing appearance. This is because the chromium reacts with the oxygen in the air to form a thin layer that prevents the metal from rusting.

In addition, other elements such as nickel or silicon can be added to further enhance the characteristics and create other variations of the fantastic material that is stainless steel.

The origins of CRES date back to 1912, when scientist Harry Brearley conducted experiments to discover a corrosion-resistant alloy for use in gun barrels.

His discovery was initially used in the manufacture of cutlery, but over time, once the resistance and low level of oxidation of stainless steel had been established, its use was extended to a multitude of industries.

Today, it is used in a wide variety of applications, from writing to your home appliances.

Thanks to its properties, which we'll look at in the next section, inox is used in many different sectors and in many different ways:

Medicine

CRES is widely used in medical environments because of its ability to maintain high standards of hygiene.

It is used in the manufacture of surgical instruments and medical equipment because it does not deteriorate during sterilisation processes.

Food industry

In this industry, it is used to make kitchen utensils, personalised cutlery, food processors and storage containers.

Its smooth surface and ease of cleaning ensure safe, hygienic food handling.

Automotive

In this sector, it is used in the manufacture of structural parts and exhaust pipes, among others.

Its high corrosion resistance and ability to withstand harsh climatic conditions make it a durable and reliable choice.

Construction

In the construction industry, stainless steel is often used in structures such as railings, bannisters, facades and decorative elements.

Its ability to withstand heavy loads and its aesthetic appeal make it a popular choice for architectural projects.

And thanks to its durability and strength, it's a popular material for promotional gifts too. Let's find out more about the properties and characteristics that make it so attractive.

Inox is highly prized for its excellent properties. First of all, it is exceptionally resistant to corrosion, which means that it remains in good condition even in harsh climatic environments.

It also has remarkable mechanical strength, enabling it to withstand high loads and pressures without deforming. It can also withstand very high temperatures.

Another major advantage is its hygienic properties, as it is easy to clean and maintain, making it a popular choice in sanitary and food environments.

Finally, it is aesthetically pleasing, offering a wide variety of designs and styles.

Let's look in more detail at the advantages of the properties of stainless steel mentioned above:

• Durability: unlike a conventional piece of steel, which can last between 16 and 20 years, CRES can last up to 60 years. In fact, it is highly resistant to corrosion caused by climatic conditions and humidity.

• Low maintenance: because it doesn't corrode, there's no need to paint it or apply a coating to protect it, saving time and money on long-term maintenance.

• Hardness: the amount of carbon in its composition determines its level of hardness. Inox of any kind is highly resistant to impact.

• Easy to clean: its non-porous surface makes it easy to clean and prevents the build-up of dirt and bacteria. It's easy to clean with soap and water.

• Eco-responsible: it is recyclable and is generally made from a high percentage of recycled materials.

• Attractive aesthetics: a modern, elegant style with a polished, high-gloss finish.

There are different types of stainless steel material, each with specific properties that make it suitable for different applications. The most common stainless steels are as follows:

Austenitic stainless steel

This is the most widely used and versatile type because it is easy to process. Although it is not magnetic, it is highly resistant to corrosion and has excellent malleability, making it easy to weld. Austenitic stainless is often used in the food, chemical and medical industries.

Ferritic stainless steel

It is characterised by its low carbon content. Its chemical composition gives it excellent resistance in corrosive environments, such as marine landscapes. Ferritic stainless is very common in the manufacture of structural components, storage tanks and piping systems.

Martensitic stainless steel

It is harder and more resistant than other types of stainless steel because it can be hardened by heat treatment. It is magnetic but has poor weldability. Martensitic stainless is commonly used in the manufacture of knives and tools, i.e. objects requiring high mechanical strength.

Duplex stainless steel

This combines the properties of austenitic and ferritic stainless steel, offering high corrosion resistance and good mechanical strength. Duplex stainless is used in the oil, chemical and food industries.

It has a strong presence in the world of advertising. This is hardly surprising, since the properties of stainless steel give the product a very high quality, underlined by the attractive, elegant appearance of the object.

The list of promotional gifts made from this material is long. Personalised thermos and isothermal bottles are certainly the most popular and appreciated because, as well as helping to reduce plastic consumption, they allow your favourite drinks to retain all their aroma and flavour.

Made from inox, we can also mention metal pens and metal key rings, great classics that are always a hit, more elegant than their plastic versions. But that's not all! You can also get personalised mugs, reusable straws and kitchen utensils, to name but a few.

As you can see, there are a multitude of products made from this material. When it comes to personalising them, we generally recommend laser engraving, as it offers a sophisticated result that will last over time. The perfect finishing touch for the perfect gift.

Cove stainless steel insulated bottle

Vacuum-insulated bottle for hours of hot or cold drinks.

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Fresno stainless steel insulated cup

Stainless steel cup with 450 ml capacity and safety measuring lid.

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Split stainless steel pocket knife

Wooden and stainless steel pocket knife with safety mechanism.

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Double Chan stainless steel lunch box

Lunch box with 2 compartments and side closures to prevent spills.

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Here are a few options that will give you a precise and long-lasting result:

Laser engraving

This technique uses a laser to create sharp, precise and lasting grooves on the surface of CRES. The result is particularly elegant and more original than a print. Suitable for products with a smooth, uncoated surface.

Find out more

Screen printing

This involves transferring the ink directly onto the material using a stencil. It can be used on smooth surfaces with no rough edges, whether flat or curved. This is the ideal technique for flat areas of colour, for a clean, strong logo.

Find out more

UV digital printing

This technique uses a high-resolution printer and an ink that dries quickly under the effect of ultraviolet light. It is ideal for printing complex, detailed logos in bright colours. The result is durable and fade-resistant.

Digital transfer

This technique transfers motifs using high-quality digital printing. It is very popular because it can be used for very colourful logos, or even logos with colour gradations.

Although it is a common material, inox is often confused with other elements such as carbon steel or aluminium. To clarify matters, here are some of their respective characteristics:

Carbon steel

Susceptible to rust and wear.

More economical than CRES.

Used where mechanical strength is required, such as in construction or industrial machinery.

Suitable for less corrosive environments.

Stainless steel

Contains chromium in its composition.

Highly resistant to corrosion and humidity.

More durable than its two rivals.

Hardly degrades or rusts.

Widely used in the food, medical and chemical industries.

Aluminium

Lighter than steel.

Excellent thermal and electrical conductivity.

Certain chemicals can corrode it.

Ability to form solid structures.

Recyclable.

Thanks to this brief comparison, you'll be able to choose the material best suited to your preferences and needs. This is essential to ensure optimum performance and durability in a wide range of industrial applications and environments.

The stainless steel price varies according to several factors, such as the type, thickness and quantity required, as well as market fluctuations. As a general rule, it tends to be more expensive than other materials because of its special composition and more complex manufacturing processes.

In terms of its chemical composition, it is an alloy containing chromium and nickel. It is these elements, among others, that give it its resistance to corrosion. The manufacture of CRES therefore involves a more complex and costly process than others, hence its higher price.

Although its initial cost is higher, it offers a number of advantages that can offset the investment. It is very resistant and requires little maintenance, which means it can last a long time and save you money in the long run.

The qualities of stainless steel make it an excellent choice for promotional gifts and merchandising. As we have seen, this high-quality material conveys an image of professionalism that reinforces a company's brand.

Its resistance to erosion and weathering, as well as its low maintenance requirements, make it the ideal material for promotional gifts that will remain as good as new for a very long time and leave a very positive impression in the minds of your customers or employees.