Columbus Stainless: Growth in the agriculture industry
Stainless steel is found regularly in the processing sector of the dairy industry. It is used in the manufacturing of a range of items like processing equipment and storage tanks. The alloy’s hygienic properties are what makes it indispensable in this industry, and due to its low maintenance requirements, it has quickly become the go-to material. Columbus Stainless is one of the market leaders in stainless steel production, and this is why.
Columbus Stainless and the qualities of stainless steel
Stainless steel does not age and has excellent corrosion resistance that protects the equipment throughout its lifetime and does not require additional coatings to function optimally. However, the coatings used on carbon steel do age and require maintenance from time to time.
Stainless steel has excellent surface conditions and is often mirror polished which makes cleaning easy. Its smooth surface is highly sought after in dairy applications, we’re sustaining the microbiological quality of raw milk is essential.
Fabrication of this noble metal has quite a few advantages for the fabricator, such as its good formability as well as ductility. Stainless is often used for complex and deep-drawn components required in the food processing industry. Weldability is also good for the austenitic grades of stainless steel, requiring little more than the removal of the heat tint before being put into service. This is important when parts are to be welded on-site, where optimal manufacturing conditions are not available.
Stainless steel does not rely on a coating for its corrosion protection. Its protective properties are inherent and constant throughout the component. There are no layers that can be peeled off through mechanical damage that would expose the subsurface to corrosion mechanisms, unlike carbons steel equipment, where corrosion could cause premature failure of the unit.
Most producers of fruit juice, soft drinks, beer and wine make use of stainless steel tanks to store their products in. Its low maintenance and corrosion protection enable produce to be stored for extended periods of time. Locally, even small stackable tanks are manufactured, which can be transported with a standard forklift. These tanks are robust and easily withstands the knocks and bumps of everyday activity. These tanks are ideal for smaller operators.
Larger tanks are transported to their destination throughout Africa on low-bed trucks. However, where exceptionally large tanks are required, fabricators will manufacture these on-site, making good use of the suitability of our stainless steels fabrication advantages.
There is also a growing market for stainless steel roofing. Where animal processing and environmental conditions cause the corrosion and failure of traditional roofing. Replacing it with our stainless steel has proven to be extremely advantageous. In roofing applications, please consult us for advice for the most cost-effective solution.
Africa is looking at more effective methods of feeding their growing population. As we look more into exporting value-added agricultural produce, remaining financially efficient and using productive equipment is of the utmost importance. This is where existing South African manufacturing companies and stainless steel have an important role to play.
Contact details
HEAD OFFICE. Hendrina Road, PO Box 133, Middelburg, 1050
PHONE. +27 13 247 9111
FAX. +27 13 246 1681
EMAIL. africa@columbus.co.za
WEBSITE. www.columbus.co.za
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