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Here at Milkcan we use a variety of materials to create your letterbox. Since we have spent so much time with the material we thought we'll share with you some of the properties of the products you are purchasing.

Stainless Steel

What is stainless steel?

Stainless steel is the universal name for a number of different steels used primarily for their anti-corrosive element. Stainless steel has been developed to resist a number of corrosive environments and to maintain the properties of steel.

It is chromium that makes the steel stainless. Stainless steel must contain a minimum of 10.5% chromium. The chromium forms a film of chromium oxide, which prevents further surface corrosion and blocks corrosion from spreading into the metal’s internal structure.

Grades of stainless steel

Stainless steel comes in varying grades, generally divided between the 400s and the 300s. The 300s are more durable and more rust resistant. If these properties are a concern to you there is a quick way to check which grade you are purchasing. Put a magnet on the surface of stainless steel, if the magnet sticks it is a 400 series stainless steel. 300 series stainless steel are not magnetic.

Milkcan uses 304 grade stainless steel; it is the most versatile and most widely used stainless steel. Utilizing its excellent forming and welding characteristics, Milkcan has designed a range of curved letterbox fascia.

Does stainless steel rust?

Stainless steel may rust, but at a much slower rate and not to the extent of normal steel.

Cleaning of stainless steel

Dirt/Fingerprints/Stains

Like any surface that is exposed to the environment, stainless steel can get dirty. Dirt and soil can consist of accumulated dust and a variety of contaminates that come from many sources, ranging from the wind to everyday use. These contaminates will vary greatly in their effect on appearance and corrosively and ease of removal.

1. Warm water with or without gentle detergent is sufficient
2. The next step up is mild non scratching abrasive powders such as typical household cleaners
3. Diluted vinegar
4. Glass cleaner
5. Paste of soda ash and water

Use with warm water, sponges or clean cloths. Make sure the cloth is free of particles to avoid scratching of the panels. Wipe surface completely dry with towels to avoid water spots.

Ordinary carbon steel brushes or steel wool should be avoided as they may leave particles embedded on the surface, which can lead to rusting.

The finish of the stainless steel

Most rust gets its start in imperfections in the surface of metal. Rough surfaces let moisture and chemicals sit and eat away at metal. Stainless steel, though resistant, isn't immune to these problems. When looking at a stainless steel product, feel the surface. It should have a clean finish to it. There are several finishes to stainless steel, but poorer quality stainless feel uneven. This metal is raw from the factory and not finished. A finished surface may be brushed or smooth, but it should feel even.

As an extra precaution to the finish of stainless steel, Milkcan’s stainless steel products are lacquered multiple times to ensure a smooth and protected surface. Do not allow acid to come into contact with the lacquered surface. As acid acts as a paint remover, and the lacquer is a paint, any contact with acid will move the smooth finish and result in a negative appearance of the product.

Reference SSINA

Galvanised Steel

Steel is a very strong and versatile metal used to manufacture a large range of products. Unfortunately if any exposed steel comes in contact with water or moisture it is susceptible to corrosion. By coating steel in a layer of zinc, it acts as a physical barrier against corrosion.

Aluminum

Aluminum is a very versatile metal; it is light weight, strong and corrosion resistant. Aluminum is about one-third the weight of equal volume of steel. It can withstand heavy loads and pressure and when it is alloyed it’s strength approaches that of steel. Untreated aluminum has very good corrosion resistance in most environment. This is due to aluminum spontaneously forms a thin but effective oxide layer that prevents further oxidization.

Regardless of what material your letterbox is made of your letterbox is exposed to the elements constantly. To ensure your letterbox maintains its good looks, a good wash once in awhile is required.To keep your hinges and locks functioning well occasionally apply some lubrication or purpose lock lubrication. Please note that some of these processes are necessary to not void your warranty.