Stainless steel hand railings can assist in maintaining safety and hygiene for personnel in a range of sectors, particularly in the manufacturing, petrochemical and chemical, food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries.

Stainless steel has high levels of corrosion resistance and can be used in rigorous environments, retaining strength at high temperatures. Its non-porous properties mean that it can be easily cleaned and kept hygienic. In addition, stainless steel has aesthetic qualities and is often used in modern architectural metal applications.

Handrails should meet both aesthetic requirements as well as structural safety. Damage such as rust can contribute to accidents and reduces the aesthetic appeal of the rails. Stainless steel does not deteriorate as rapidly as mild steel when used in exterior or industrial installations exposed to damaging pollution and or chloride.

Andrew Mentis provides a variety of handrails in three alternative grades: 3CR12, 304 and 316 stainless steel. Stanchions on the Andrew Mentis stainless steel handrails are 45 mm in diameter with a 2 mm wall thickness. Base plates are designed to allow moisture to drain from the stanchion itself, adding to the corrosion-resistant benefits. The centre hole for the knee rail is drilled and then flared on both sides. The top is also flared and a half round cap is welded into place. The base plate is 8 mm thick and welded to the tube.

Bends, hand and knee rails are manufactured from 31.8-mm-diameter tube with a 1.5 mm wall thickness. Bends and closures have swaged ends, improving speed of installation and preventing moisture from penetrating into the joints.

“Typically, the more corrosion resistant Type 316 stainless steel handrails are the most cost effective choice in demanding environments. They require minimal maintenance, no paint or coating and provide safety and an attractive appearance. The service life of carbon steel and aluminium is typically limited by corrosion damage, which reduces structural integrity and appearance,” says Andrew Mentis national technical sales consultant Lance Quinlan.

He points out that an important aspect of structural integrity is the perceived ability of a handrail to withstand the load associated with one or more large persons or individuals accidentally falling against or climbing onto rails. In general applications, where corrosion is not a big factor, stainless steel hand railings require little or no maintenance. In more corrosive environments, such as coastal locations or where there is exposure to damaging pollution or chloride, 316 stainless steel is more suitable and requires less maintenance.