Handwheels offer an effective and ergonomic way to adjust machines. As you tun a handwheel, it will engage the machine to which it’s connected. If you’re looking to buy a handwheel, though, you should consider choosing a stainless steel model. While handwheels are available in a variety of materials, those made of stainless steel offer several key benefits that make them a popular choice in the workplace.
Heat Resistant
You can rest assured knowing that stainless steel handwheels are heat resistant. Stainless steel is an iron alloy with a chromium content of at least 10.5% and a carbon content of less than 1.2%. The high concentration of chromium, along with the small amount of nickel, in stainless steel protects it from extreme heat. Some types of stainless steel have a melting point of 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
Corrosion Resistant
In addition to being heat resistant, stainless steel handwheels are corrosion resistant. After all, that’s what distinguishes stainless steel from other types of steel, such as high-carbon steel. The chromium in stainless steel reacts with oxygen in the surrounding environment. This chemical reaction triggers the formation of a protective chromium oxide layer over the surface of the stainless steel that keeps it safe from corrosion.
Easy to Clean and Maintain
Stainless steel handwheels are easy to clean and maintain. They feature a smooth and nonporous surface. Stainless steel handwheels won’t trap or otherwise hold germs within them. Thanks to their nonporous surface, you can easily clean them using conventional cleaning products.
Strong and Durable
Stainless steel handwheels are strong and durable. They are typically much stronger than plastic handwheels. For adjustment applications that require a lot of turning force, you can’t go wrong with a stainless steel handwheel.
Aesthetics
There’s no denying the fact that stainless steel handwheels are attractive. They feature a sleek chrome appearance that many businesses and workers prefer over other materials. The stylish appearance of stainless steel handwheels is one of the reasons why they are commonly used in customer-facing industries.
Variety of Options
Stainless steel handwheels are available in a variety of options. While they are all made of the iron alloy of their namesake, some of them are made of different types of stainless steel than others. You can also find stainless steel handwheels with or without a handle. Stainless steel handwheels with a handle offer a secondary surface that you can grab and turn. There are also stainless steel handwheels in solid and two-spoke designs.