The Evolution of Stainless Steel

The evolution of stainless steel officially began just over 100 years ago. In 1913, Harry Brearley (1871-1948) was experimenting with alloys to find a way to protect rifle and gun barrels from corrosion. In the process, he discovered stainless steel. He originally named it “rustless steel” because this material would not rust or corrode. Brearley then discovered that identical cast deemed perfect for crafting cutlery. Earlier efforts of this similar alloy were made. However, Brearley is credited with inventing the first true stainless steel we still use today.

Chromium Is Key in the Evolution of Stainless Steel

Evolution of Stainless Steel in America

• In the early 1920s, stainless steel is used in implantable metallic devices for medical purposes.
• Rolls-Royce Company was one of the first to use stainless steel on a vehicle. Their 1929 automobile exposed the very impressive radiator grille in silvery stainless steel.
• The world’s first stainless steel airplane, the Budd BB1 Pioneer, was test flown in 1932 in Philadelphia.
• By 1930, the Chrysler Building in New York City was the first major use of stainless steel in construction. The Chrysler Building was the highest and most embellished skyscraper in the world. In fact, the top 100 feet of the mast is clad in stainless steel. This tower soon became a representation of the stainless steel industry. Indeed, an icon of stamina and splendor in building designs, and a favorite of architects.
• In 1934, the Zephyr was built. The Zephyr featured extensive use of stainless steel and was America’s first diesel-streamline train. The efficient high speed train was a lightweight, luxurious, silvery train that became the world’s fastest. Additionally, it even had a movie named after it, “The Silver Streak.”
• By 1935, stainless steel kitchen sinks became widely used.
• In 1936, Ford Motor Company produced the Deluxe Sedan. This was the first ever stainless steel car. Accordingly, it was part of a campaign to bring awareness to the new metal.
• In 1965, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri became the world’s tallest stainless steel monument. Specifically, the 630 foot arch consists of 886 tons of stainless steel.
• In 1969, the first men on the moon (Apollo 11) arrived there by the stainless steel Saturn V Rocket.
• The DeLorean Motor Company the first carmaker to mass produce stainless steel cars in 1981.

Stainless Steel Today