Stainless steel pipes have a long service life, up to 100 or at least 70 years. The service life of composite pipes is affected and limited by the service life of the materials and thermal expansion.
As composite pipes combine two different materials, there is a high risk of delamination at the bonding layer, affecting the service life. This article mainly introduces the service life of 304 stainless steel pipes.
According to our field corrosion test data, the service life of stainless steel water pipes can reach up to 100 years. According to relevant regulations for personal residences in China, the service life of residences is generally around 70 years. This means stainless steel water pipes can guarantee no need for replacement.
For ordinary residents, houses have been used for decades, and decoration has remained the same for decades. Therefore, it is essential to use materials that can synchronize with the lifespan of human beings, especially for water pipes. As they are hidden in walls or under the floor, maintenance and replacement are significant projects.
Many people think that stainless steel pipes are of poor quality if they rust, but this is a one-sided view. Stainless steel pipes are only more resistant to rust. Stainless steel pipe manufacturers recommend users to choose 304 stainless steel pipes when using them. Under the same conditions, the rust resistance of 304 stainless steel pipes is ten times stronger than that of 201 stainless steel pipes.
The service life of 304 stainless steel pipes is usually affected by the following factors:
- Poor environment
304 stainless steel pipes themselves can resist atmospheric oxidation and corrosion resistance in media containing acids, alkalis, and salts. Their corrosion resistance varies depending on the steel’s chemical composition, chemical state, use conditions, and environmental media type. They have excellent corrosion resistance. In dry and clean air, moving to a seaside area, high-salt fog will quickly rust and affect the service life of 304 stainless steel pipes.
For example, when users use 304 stainless steel pipes in high-pollution areas such as sewage treatment plants near the sea, they will rust when cleaned with corrosive chemicals.
- Improper processing and installation
When making products or cutting stainless steel pipes or iron, stainless steel processors will splash iron filings onto the steel pipe surface, causing rust on 304 stainless steel pipes. If the house walls are painted after installing stainless steel products, it may also cause rust.
- Improper cleaning and maintenance
Do not use a steel ball brush on the surface of stainless steel pipes, as it will damage the surface of 304 stainless steel pipes. In addition, do not use bleach and abrasives, such as acid and alkali cleaners. Finally, clean the surface of 304 stainless steel pipes with water.
Of course, the quality cannot be too poor. The advantage of 304 stainless steel pipes is their corrosion resistance. If the purchased stainless steel pipes have good quality and are properly maintained and cleaned during use, it can effectively extend the service life of 304 stainless steel pipes.
