Both stainless steel and nickel are two materials that are common in countless industries far and wide. Each material carries its own set of benefits and its own set of downfalls that, in the grand scheme of things, dictate which one you consider.
Now, while woven wire mesh is synonymous with stainless steel, it's important to know that other materials like nickel can be used to construct your wire mesh. That said, it's also important to know the differences between the two to ensure you use an alloy that is right for you.
As W.S. Tyler has woven mesh for over 140 years, we have the know-how needed to provide you with everything you need to build a wire mesh solution that gives you peace of mind.
With that, this article will cover the following points to give you a better idea of how stainless steel wire mesh and nickel wire mesh compare:
What Is Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel is a series of alloys consisting of specific carbon and chromium levels. This composition of elements allows stainless steel to have a relatively high resistance to corrosion and extreme temperatures.
Unfortunately, this high resistance to heat makes stainless steel alloys hard to weld when certain lower temperature weld techniques are used as they absorb the heat.
That said, in the world of stainless steel, there are nine prominent variants: 304, 309, 310, 316, 317, 318, 321, 330, 347. However, in the world of woven wire mesh, 304 and 316 stainless steel is predominantly used.
What Is Nickel?
Nickel is a natural alloy found on the periodic table of elements and is often used for special applications that call for alloys that fall under stringent criteria. It is a wire mesh alloy that, like stainless steel, is known for having a high resistance to corrosive environments.
When working with woven wire mesh, nickel 200 and Monel (1) alloy 400 are widely used.
How Do Stainless Steel and Nickel Compare?
When it comes down to brass tacks, the difference between stainless steel wire mesh and nickel wire mesh ultimately comes down to performance.
As stated above, the natural resistance to high temperatures seen in stainless steel alloys is proven to hinder their ability to be welded and hinder the effectiveness of heat treatment. That said, you can combat this obstacle by using low carbon alloy.
Regardless, if you weld your mesh or not, it should be noted that the surface of stainless steel is known to become discolored when exposed to high heat as its heat resistance does not entail high-temperature oxidation.
Nickel doesn't have this issue as it does not have the same resistance to heat. In fact, it is widely applied for its heat conductivity as well as for its electrical and magnetic conductivity.
Additionally, nickel's corrosion resistance is excellent for special circumstances, such as applications that subject the alloy to acids or lyes. This is particularly true when halogenides, caustic alkalines, and various organic compounds are present.
Which Alloy Should I Use?
The alloy you use depends on the needs of the application your wire mesh is subjected to. If your application calls for a mesh that must meet specific criteria or requires heat, electrical, or magnetic conductivity, nickel wire mesh should be used.
That said, if you wish to implement a wire mesh that delivers an ideal balance of heat resistance, corrosion resistance, and durability, a stainless steel alloy should be used.
Now, taking a deeper dive, if the mesh will be subject to more harsh, corrosive conditions, 316 stainless steel should be employed. On the other hand, if the mesh will be in contact with non-corrosive material, 304 stainless steel is most likely the more practical material.
Ensure the Best Possible Alloy To Achieve Desirable Results
Stainless steel and nickel are two alloys that are commonly used to construct woven wire mesh. Stainless steel provides the perfect balance of heat and corrosion resistance, whereas nickel delivers unique heat, electrical, and magnetic conductivity to specialty applications.
But as it is crucial to understand the differences between these two materials, it's just as important to understand the wire mesh can be constructed from a broad spectrum of alloys that you should have an understanding of. This is will you to implement a wire mesh that you can truly say you're confident in.
W.S. Tyler understands that you rely on wire mesh solutions that are tried and true. For this reason, we strive to learn every aspect of your operations to point you in the direction of optimal solutions.
We put the following article together to give you a better idea of what alloys can be used to weave wire mesh so you can implement wire mesh components you can trust:
After you have chosen your cabinets, countertops, and color scheme, you can think about what type of hardware would go best in your kitchen remodel. But making the choice is hard. You can go back and forth between different options for ages. Today, we’ll compare three popular finishes: chrome, brushed nickel, and stainless steel.
Comparing chrome, brushed nickel, and stainless steel
You can compare the three finishes above: chrome (1), brushed nickel (2), and stainless steel (3). In terms of color, chrome is the brightest silver and it reflects its surroundings like a mirror. Brushed nickel is warmer in color, and stainless steel is in between the two. Stainless steel also usually has a brushed or satin finish.
Of these three metal finishes, stainless steel is the only type that can be solid all the way through. Nickel and chrome are always plated over another type of metal core, which can be made from zinc, copper, or brass. Stainless steel can also be plated over a metal core to make pieces more affordable.
Durability
Stainless steel is the most durable of these three finishes. If you have a solid stainless steel piece you can even polish or sand the surface to get rid of scratches and dents.
As long as you aren’t abusing your kitchen hardware, chrome and nickel finishes can also last for a long time. It’s a good idea to clean your nickel cabinet knobs and fixtures frequently. Over time, the color can tarnish from grease and stains.
Chrome also needs regular cleaning. Since it has a mirror-like polish, it does not hide scratches and dents. However, it can still look good for years if you take care of it. All three types of finishes resist rust, but the inner core of a plated piece of hardware is vulnerable if the metal plating wears down.
Satin Nickel vs. Brushed Nickel
If you’re settled on the color of nickel, you’ll also have to decide if you prefer brushed nickel vs. satin nickel. Brushed nickel looks like it has wire brush strokes on the surface. On the other hand, satin nickel is completely matte. You won’t notice a grain direction. Both of these finishes can work well in many applications. It’s really up to you to decide which is your favorite.
When to use chrome
Chrome has a polished mirror finish and it can almost look tinted blue and some lights. It works best in kitchens with white, gray, black, or cool colors. Chrome also has a retro look to it and can work well in a mid-century modern kitchen.
If you’re going to use chrome in your kitchen, make sure you purchase it from a reputable supplier. The chrome plating can fake off of cheaper kitchen fixtures over time.
When to use brushed nickel
Brushed nickel is one of the most popular kitchen hardware finishes. It works with traditional, modern, farmhouse, and transitional design. You can even get brushed nickel fixtures that have a vintage patina. Because of the slightly warm color, brushed nickel cabinet handles work well with different wood finishes and many colors of paint, even white.
When to use stainless steel
Stainless steel also works in a wide range of settings, but it might look a bit too modern if you’re going for a tradition of wood or farmhouse kitchen. Also, some people prefer not to match stainless steel hardware with stainless steel kitchen appliances.
Stainless steel is also the best option for an outdoor kitchen. If you’re going to use it outdoors, make sure the fixtures are made from solid stainless steel. It’s more durable and will last in the outdoor elements.
Don’t be afraid to mix metals
At the end of the day, there are no hard and fast rules about kitchen design. If you own your home, you can really do whatever you want. In terms of cabinet hardware, you can mix different metals as long as you have a plan of how they go together.
For example, you could have a stainless steel faucet and brushed nickel hardware. Or, If your cabinets are a shade of blue, you can contrast that with copper handles but use a chrome sink faucet.
Frequently asked questions
Is brushed nickel better than stainless steel?
Brushed nickel can work in a wider variety of kitchen designs, but solid stainless steel is more durable. Also, brushed nickel will hide fingerprints a little bit better because of its color.
Is stainless steel closer to brushed nickel or chrome?
Stainless steel is usually in between nickel and chrome in terms of color, but nickel can vary and almost look brown at times.
Is brushed nickel better than chrome?
A brushed nickel finish typically masks fingerprints better than a chrome finish. Also, brushed nickel hides scratches and dents better than chrome, and you can seal it with lacquer.
Is brushed nickel rustproof?
Brushed nickel hardware resists rust, but it’s not 100% rust proof forever. The plating will wear off at some point, and that depends on how often it’s handled and cleaned. Don’t worry, the hardware can still last for years without rust.