USAGE LIMITS FOR AISI 316 and 316L STAINLESS STEEL
The environment in indoor swimming pools treated with chlorine or salt electrolysis (a combination of high humidity, chloride vapours and relatively high temperature) is aggressive for certain metal alloys, including AISI 316 and 316L stainless steel (or EN1.4404). For this reason, the chloride content must not exceed :
- 500 mg/l in water at 30°C
- 400 mg/l in water at 35°C
As a result, we strongly advise to not installing stainless steel parts, even 316L, in pools treated by salt electrolysis.
CLEANING AND PRESERVING STAINLESS STEEL
The most appropriate preventive maintenance is regular washing of all stainless steel out of water.
1. Cleaning products
Type of pollution | Recommandations |
Cement and mortar | Solution containing a small amount of phosphoric acid (rinse with water, preferably demineralised) |
Fingerprints | - Soapy water or diluted detergent (non-chlorinated) |
Limestone | White vinegar diluted 25% (¼ vinegar and ¾ water) |
Oils and fats | - Alcohol-based cleaning agents (including methyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol) |
Paint | Alkaline or solvent-based paint strippers |
Iron particles from tools or contact with structural steel | - At an early stage: polishing paste, then brushing and repassivation |
Corrosion, oxidation, rusting | - FERINOX rust remover (contact us) |
CAUTION :
- Never use the following cleaning products on our stainless steel: mortar removers, hydrochloric acid (even diluted), bleaching agents and silver cleaners
- When using corrosive products (such as phosphoric acid) or solvents and alcohol-based products, wear the appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment) (goggles, rubber gloves, etc.).
2. Cleaning tools
Recommended tools for cleaning stainless steel: microfibre, soft cloth, chamois, nylon sponge.
CAUTION : Never use wire brushes, steel wool, steel wool or steel scouring pads.
Inoxonline declines all responsibility for the use of inappropriate cleaning products, as well as for any incident resulting from non-compliance with health and safety rules during the above-mentioned operations and/or improper handling of cleaning products.
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