Stainless steel square bar and tubing are used in a variety of different industries and applications. But where can you buy the stainless steel bar and tubing that you need for the job, and fast? It’s not like you can just walk into any corner or hardware store and expect to find what you need. Atlantic Stainless is your one-stop-shop stainless steel provider. We have the wide variety and the inventory you are looking for and can deliver it to you or your business in a matter of days. Today we discuss different applications for stainless steel square bar and tubing, sizes available, as well as grades, finishes and polishing options.
Atlantic Stainless has bar sizes available from ⅛” up to 3”, and offers custom sizing for all of our tubing. Square bars and tubing can be found in wide range of industries. In architecture and construction, bars are used for framework, braces, and supports, They are also used for shafts and axles, and popular in marine applications. A few examples of some common applications for stainless steel tubes are chemical processing equipment, boat fittings, food prep equipment and military tanks.
Stainless Steel Square Bar Grades and Common Applications
Atlantic Stainless offers the following popular stainless steel grades:
- 304L – The most familiar and frequently used alloy in the stainless steel family.
- 316L – The 2nd most common grade; for food and surgical stainless steel uses. Also known as marine grade due to its increased resistance to chloride corrosion.
- 303-Easier machining version of 304 due to the addition of sulfur and phosphorus.
- 17-4 – A chromium-nickel-copper precipitation hardening stainless steel.
- 416 – A free-machining variation of martensitic stainless steel with the addition of sulfur or selenium.
Finishing Options for Your Square Bar
There are a number of stainless steel finishing options that alter more than just the appearance of the material. Whatever the intended use, choosing the right finish options is crucial. Three common stainless steel finishes are:
No. 2B – Matte finish. Dull in appearance and not ideal for aesthetic end uses. However, they’re a good choice where appearance is not important or when further finishing is intended. It’s the least expensive of the stainless steel finishes.
Common Applications: Chemical plant equipment, pharmaceutical equipment, paper mill equipment, laundry and dry cleaning.
No. 4 – Brushed Finish. Brushing the stainless steel yields a distinctive look with a subdued luster and a pattern of fine parallel lines. It carries strong decorative appeal without being too reflective.
Common Applications: Home appliances, jewelry and watches, water heaters, and air conditioners.
No. 8 – Mirror Finish. Highly reflective and created by polishing the stainless steel. The polishing process enhances appearance and consistency, making cleaning easier. It also masks surface damage.
Common Applications: Mirrors, ornamental trim, column covers, wall panels, and reflectors.
Additional Services and Stainless Steel Customization
Atlantic Stainless also offers polishing services. Stainless steel polishing creates a uniform and consistent surface finish vital for military/tank applications, and aesthetically pleasing for architectural and home furnishing applications. All stainless steel products including bar and tubing can be polished. Common polishing options include abrasive polishing, buffing, and electropolishing. To learn more about the services and products we provide, contact us today!
