Keep in mind that Stainless Steel is not rust PROOF, but rust and corrosion resistant. Pat is absolutely correct - if you introduce iron (standard steel fines) to the surface of stainless, that will seed the surface with iron and you will get rust and/or corrosion. 300 series steels are "self-passivating" due to the higher chrome/nickel content. 400 series steels, particularly 420 is prone to corrosion unless chemically passivated. There are passivation gels (acid based) that can be used to encourage a passive surface; if it is clean 300 series stainless, it will self-passivate when exposed to oxygen. Acidic cleaners will strip oxides from the surface and encourage a passivation layer - make sure you rinse well and dry.
If you have the money, titanium is inert and the rust or corrosion you might see is introduced from iron contaminants from machining or cutting; easily removed with the right polishing compound. It is also very light, but comparatively soft. Mark W. N952MW (res) USMC - '71 - '73 (to mirror Pat's veteran statement). -----Original Message----- Patrick Driscoll wrote: Subject: Re: KR> Firewall Edge Finish Just be sure that when you file or grind S/S on the firewall, you use a new file or grinding disc. Stainless steel will not rust? It will if you use a file or disc that was used on plain steel or iron. Patrick Driscoll Saint Paul, MN patrick36 at usfamily.net www.pensbypat.com If you can read this, Thank a teacher If you are reading this in English, thank a veteran --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus
