The hinge you've provided a picture of is made from Stainless Steel 304 (SS 304), which is one of the most common and versatile stainless steel grades.
SS 304 is widely used for hardware like door hinges because of its excellent combination of properties:
✨ Key Properties of Stainless Steel 304
* Corrosion Resistance: This is the most crucial property. SS 304 is an austenitic stainless steel (meaning it's primarily iron, chromium, and nickel) that contains a minimum of 18% chromium and 8% nickel. The chromium forms a self-healing, protective chromium oxide layer on the surface, which makes it highly resistant to rust and corrosion from moisture, humidity, and general atmospheric environments. This is vital for hinges that may be exposed to the elements or high humidity indoors (like bathrooms).
* Durability and Strength: It offers high tensile strength and toughness, which allows the hinge to withstand the constant stress of opening and closing doors, especially heavy ones, without bending, cracking, or deforming over time.
* Fabrication and Workability: SS 304 is easy to form, machine, and weld, making it cost-effective and efficient for manufacturers to produce hinges with precise dimensions and finishes.
* Aesthetic Appeal: It has a clean, sleek, and modern appearance, often finished with a brushed or polished look that maintains its shine with minimal maintenance.
* Hygienic: Its smooth, non-porous surface is easy to clean and resists the buildup of bacteria, making it suitable for applications in food service or medical settings, though for a hinge, this is less critical than its corrosion resistance.
🚪 Why it's Ideal for Door Hinges
For a door hinge, like the one from the manufacturer "irex" shown in your image, SS 304 is a preferred material choice over carbon steel or other less-resistant metals because it:
* Prevents Rust: Unlike mild steel, which can quickly rust in humid environments, SS 304 hinges won't rust and cause unsightly stains or streaks on the surrounding door or frame.
* Ensures Longevity: Its durability means the hinge won't wear down, squeak, or fail prematurely, offering a long service life and reducing maintenance costs.
* Maintains Functionality: The high strength and corrosion resistance ensure the hinge's pivot points (the knuckles and pin) remain smooth and operational for years, even under heavy, repeated use.
Would you like to know the typical dimensions or load capacity of a standard 304 stainless steel hinge of this type?