Page 17 - Industrial Technology EXTRA - 29th June 2020

it's also the first choice in the marine industry), 316
can endure regular chemical washdown or
environments of high salinity. While Types 303/4
steels should only be specified for certain
conditions, Type 316 could be widely used for any
application. These characteristics make it more
expensive, although the cost difference between
304 and 316 has reduced over time.

Growing range
The range of stainless steel
components which WDS provides
continues to grow through
increasing demand
across wider indus-
tries and applica-
tions. Hand knobs,
for example, are
ubiquitous throughout industry,
including food and beverage,
marine, and also for machine parts.
New to the WDS range includes a T Knob with
threaded stem as well as a four-spoke threaded
hand knob, both in 316 stainless steel. While indexing plunger is now available in stainless steel.
stainless steel is often selected for its shine, the new Indexing plungers and bolts are generally
threaded hand knob is also available in 316 with a manufactured in Type 304, giving adequate
matt finish, usually chosen in order to hide finger resilience even if it's not required to face the full
prints and maintain the most hygienic appearance. rigours of a daily wash down.
Another new addition in stainless steel is the Similarly, castor wheels for use in food
handwheel. Handwheels are often provided in manufacture and preparation must meet the
aluminium, which can be suitable even for outdoor necessary hygiene standards, but at the same time
use if safety, hygiene or regulations allow. However, aren't required to withstand full washdown.
the new 316 stainless steel handwheel will last far Therefore, a stainless steel Type 304 frame is
longer and is the choice for use in corrosive suitable, combined with a nylon wheel. On the
environments, such as marine applications. Small same principle, levelling feet with up to 50 degrees
crafts to superyachts use WDS components and not of angle tilt are also available in a 304 stainless
only does 316 stainless steel provide the anti- steel stem and can be fitted with an anti-microbial
corrosivity required, its aesthetic appeal is also polypropylene base.
more popular in the market. Alternatively, an example of necessary use of the
Used as a fixing on a machine when indexing a higher 316 grade for the food and beverage industry
range of motion or series of positions, a cam action is on gas struts, precisely because of the essential

June 2020 • INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY EXTRA! • p17