Page 2 of 4 Stainless Steel Mesh Cleaning Procedures Stainless steel screens need to be cleaned for aesthetic considerations and to preserve corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is protected from corrosion by a thin layer of chromium oxide. Oxygen from the atmosphere combines with the chromium in the stainless steel to form this passive chromium oxide film that protects from further corrosion. Any contamination of the surface by dirt, or other material, hinders this passivation process and traps corrosive agents, reducing corrosion protection. Dirt Like any surface that is exposed to the environment, stainless steel screens 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 corrosivity and ease of removal. While some may be easily removed, others may require specific cleaners for effective removal. It may be necessary to identify the contaminate or experiment with various cleaners. Frequently, warm water with or without a gentle detergent is sufficient. Next in order are mild non-scratching abrasive powders such as typical household cleaners. These can be used with warm water, bristle brushes, sponges, or clean cloths.
Ordinary carbon steel brushes or steel wool should be avoided as they may leave particles embedded on the surface which can lead to rusting. For more aggressive cleaning, a small amount of vinegar can be added to the scouring powder. Cleaning should always be followed by rinsing in clean hot water. When water contains mineral solids, which leave water spots, it is advisable to wipe (or blot) the surface completely with dry towels or utilize a gentle air blast. Residential insect screens are frequently dried with common garden leaf blowers. Stains Mild stains resulting from normal use in consumer, architectural and industrial applications are the most common surface contaminates. Fortunately, these usually affect only appearance and seldom have an effect on corrosion resistance. They are easy to remove by a variety of simple cleaning methods. Fingerprints are probably the most troublesome marks to remove from the surface of small aperture (fine mesh) screens. Fortunately, they can be removed with a glass cleaner or by gentle rubbing with a paste of soda ash (sodium carbonate) and water applied with a soft rag. This should always be followed with a thorough warm water rinse.
Oil and Grease Shop oils, which may carry grease, grit and metal chips, commonly produce surface soiling after many shop operations. Greases and other contaminates may also soil screen surfaces in food preparation, household (insect exclusion), industrial (sizing and sieving) and commercial applications. These soils may be corrosive or may not allow the surface to maintain passivity, and so periodic removal is a necessity. Initially, soap or detergent and water may be tried or a combination of detergent and water plus a solvent. The removal of oil and grease from stainless wire screens by immersion in chemical solvents is frequently used.
The method generally employed with these cleaners is to apply them to the screens surface and follow by cloth wiping, or to wipe directly with an impregnated soft cloth. In all cases, the cleaned surface should be thoroughly rinsed with clean water and wiped dry with a soft cloth or gentle air blast. continued next page
[Technical Reference Index] [Woven Wire Main Index] [Stainless Steel Index] Screen Technology Group, Inc 33008 NE Washougal River Road, Washougal WA 98671 USA Screen Technology Group, established in 1988 With our success built on providing a level of customer service that is second to none, competent technical assistance, quality materials at competitive prices, properly package every order, always ship promptly according to schedule. By using this website, you are agreeing that you have read and accepted the Terms of Use Agreement Copyright © 2015 Screen Technology Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Last modified: August 07, 2018
