11
Maintenance
CAUTIONS WITH STAINLESS STEEL
The Stainless Steel may present rust signs, which are ALWAYS CAUSED BY EXTERNAL AGENTS, especially
when the cleaning or sanitization is not constant and appropriate.
The Stainless Steel resistance towards corrosion is mainly due to the presence of chrome, which in contact
with oxygen allows the formation of a very thin protective coat. This protective coat is formed through the whole
surface of the steel, blocking the action of external corrosive agents.
When the protective coat is broken, the corrosion process begins, being possible to avoid it by means of
constant and adequate cleaning.
Cleaning must always be done immediately after using the equipment. For such end, use water, neutral soap
or detergent, and clean the equipment with a soft cloth or a nylon sponge.
Then rinse it with plain running water, and dry immediately with a soft cloth, this way avoiding humidity on
surfaces and especially on gaps. The rinsing and drying processes are extremely important to prevent stains
and corrosion from arising.
IMPORTANT: Acid solutions, salty solutions, disinfectants and some sterilizing solutions
(hypochlorites, tetravalent ammonia salts, iodine compounds, nitric acid and others), must be
AVOIDED, once it cannot remain for long in contact with the stainless steel.
These substances attack the stainless steel due to the CHLORINE on its composition, causing corrosion spots
(pitting). Even detergents used in domestic cleaning must not remain in contact with the stainless steel longer
than necessary, being mandatory to remove it with plain water and then dry the surface completely.
USE OF ABRASIVES:
Sponges or steel wool and carbon steel brushes, besides scratching the surface and compromising the
stainless steel protection, leave particles that rust and react contaminating the stainless steel. That is why such
products must not be used for cleaning and sanitization. Scraping made with sharp instruments or similar must
also be avoided.
MAIN SUBSTANCES THAT CAUSE STAINLESS STEEL CORROSION:
Dust, grease, acid solutions such as vinegar, fruit juices, etc., Salty solutions (brine), blood, detergents (except
for the neutral ones), common steel particles, residue of sponges or common steel wool, and also other
abrasives.
MAINTENANCE
Maintenance must be considered a set of procedures with the purpose to keep the equipment best operating
conditions, therefore increasing the equipment life and safety.
Cleaning: See Cleaning section.
Wiring: Check all wires regarding deteriorate conditions as well as all electric contacts (terminals) regarding