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XII. a - INTRODUCTION:
All Traulsen R & A Series Refrigerator, Freezer, Dual-
Temp and Heated Cabinet models are constructed with
a high quality 430 series, 20 gauge stainless steel
exterior finish (front, sides and doors). The interior
finish on these same R-Series models are constructed
using 300 series stainless steel (anodized aluminum is
used for A-Series).
The stainless steel finish on Traulsen R & A Series should
retain its appearance throughout the products usable
lifetime. However, some care is required to maintain this
appearance. The following paragraphs will provide a
guideline on proper care of the exterior/interior finish,
as well as some suggestions on how to repair a finish
which has been marred due to adverse environmental
conditions or improper jobsite care.
XII. b - STAINLESS STEEL, HOW IT WORKS:
The process by which stainless steel retains its
appearance is a result of its type of metal alloy. Steel is
a composite of metals combined in a specific industrial
process. Stainless steel contains a high percentage of
chromium, the addition of which provides both its
appearance, and a microscopic surface layer protecting
the steel underneath from corrosion. This external layer
acts as a barrier, preventing typical oxidation of the steel.
Remove this barrier, and the environment will
eventually corrode the metal, marring its appearance.
XII. c - UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSES OF CORROSION:
Corrosion to stainless steel can only be caused in one
of four specific ways:
1)
ABRASION
Abrasion can be caused during routine cleaning of the
metal, either by use of an abrasive cleanser, or use of an
abrasive device, such as a metal scouring pad.
Abrasion can also be caused by contact with other hard
surfaces, such as nearby equipment, walls or tools.
Special care should be taken to position your unit
properly to prevent accidental dents and scratches.
2)
WATER
Water everywhere contains various deposits, or solids,
which as the water drys or evaporates, can leave spots
behind. The spots may eventually cause corrosion if
not removed.
3)
CHEMICALS OR WATER CONTAINING CHLORIDES
Chlorides, such as found in water or many cleaning
materials are especially corrosive to stainless steel.
Daily janitorial duties, such a floor mopping, can splash
water containing chlorinated cleansers against the front
and sides of a Traulsen refrigeration product, resulting
in corrosion. Avoid use of these on or around a Traulsen
refrigeration product if at all possible.
4)
PROLONGED CONTACT WITH FOOD PRODUCT
Many food products, such as milk and carbonated
sodas,contain acids which may damage the protective
layer of stainless steel. All food and beverage spills
XII. STAINLESS STEEL OVERVIEW
XII. c - UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSES OF CORROSION:
should be cleaned up promptly to avoid possible stains
and corrosion.
XIII. CARE OF STAINLESS STEEL
XIII. a - USING THE PROPER TOOLS:
Use of proper cleaning materials will do much to
prolong the appearance of your Traulsen refrigeration
product. We particularly encourage the use of either
plastic scouring pads or soft cloths for cleaning
stainless steel.
Soft nylon scouring pads can also be used, however care
has to used to insure that all scrubbing is done in the
direction of the metals
“
GRAIN.
”
Because metals are
chrystalline in nature, when they are in a solid state the
individual ions line up to form visible grain lines. Use of
a soft nylon scouring pad in a direction opposite of the
grain will mar its luster. Always do so
“
PARALLEL
”
to
the grain.
There are several types of tools which should NEVER
BE USED when cleaning stainless steel, these include:
•
WIRE BRUSHES
•
METAL SCOURING PADS
•
SANDPAPER
•
SCRAPERS & PUTTY KNIVES
Use of any of these tools will result in scratches or
removal of the stainless steel
’
s protective layer, which
will eventually lead to corrosion and rust.
XIII. b - USING THE RIGHT CLEANSER:
Avoid all cleaning products containing chloride
ingredients. Use of a cleanser specifically designed for
stainless steel is highly recommended. You may find
yourself in a situation where you are uncertain if a
particular cleaning product contains any chlorides. If
unsure, its probably best to just assume that it does and
avoid its use in cleaning a Traulsen refrigeration
product.
Also to be avoided are cleaning products which contain
“
QUATERNARY SALTS.
”
These salts can literally
attack the stainless steel
’
s protective layer, leading to
corrosion and pitting of the steels surface.
After cleaning, it is important to always rinse the cleaned
area thoroughly with cool, clean water (do not use hot
water) and wipe completely dry using a paper towel or
soft absorbent cloth.
Use of cleaning products designed for use on stainless
steel, in conjunction with the proper tools, as outlined
above will help retain the appearance of your Traulsen
refrigeration product for years and years.
