Stainless Steel Initial Cleaning

During the construction, transport and assembly, a protective adhesive plastic film is installed to protect the stainless steel components. If offers an excellent protection against degradation and soiling, but some plastic films alter when exposed to UV rays and can be difficult to remove. The adhesive film, after peeling, may also leave traces on the stainless steel’s surface. The protective film must be removed when no longer required, right after the end of the assembly. Peeling will be proceeded from top to bottom.

Cement stains may be removed by using a solution containing a small part of phosphoric acid. This treatment is followed by an abundant rinsing, preferably with demineralised water, and drying. Using demineralised water reduces the chances of having new traces on the steel. Surface treatment specialized businesses can provide these products. Products containing hydrochloric (even diluted) should not be used on stainless steel. If this happens, rinse abundantly with water.

Building professionals are not always informed about the risks of using products containing hydrochloric acid on stainless steel pieces. To prevent any risks, users should modify the order of operations, which means to finish the tiles and to clean ceramic elements before installing nearby stainless steel components.

Iron particles that can come from tools or a contact with a steel scaffolding, etc. must be avoided. The discharge of steel while welding, cutting, piercing, and polishing or carbon steel (not stainless) would rapidly generate rust. While corroding itself, these particles may damage the passive film that protects stainless steel and attack it, in spite of its good resistance to corrosion in normal circumstances.

At the beginning, the dirt may be removed with a nylon sponge such as “Scotch-Brite”, used commonly in the kitchen. Another solution is to remove it with a product for stainless steel containing phosphoric acid.

In case of corrosion, and depending on its seriousness, an acid metal-cleaning may be used or the surface may mechanically be brought back to its original state. Pastes containing metal-cleaning elements exist for local applications on the building site. Make sure to use these products strictly conforming to the given instructions to work safely and respect the environment protection legislation. Often, specialized companies will do the work directly on the building site. Metal-cleaning will restore the steel’s resistance to corrosion but it may also modify its look. Other mechanical treatments may be needed to restore its original finish. It will then be necessary to avoid any contamination, first of all by protecting the stainless steel parts while doing other work or by placing the stainless steel elements after finishing the work that could contaminate the steel.