Stainless-steel jacketing

0.4–0.8 mm 304/316; ASTM C1767. The fire-and-chemicals jacket.

Assessment

For: fire integrity (melt ~1400 °C); chemical plants and offshore standard; toughest mechanically.

Against: 2–3x aluminium price; heavier; higher emissivity than bright aluminium (slightly cooler surface, slightly higher loss).

Best for: fire-protection cases, chemical exposure, offshore, food-plant washdown zones.

Surface emissivity (typical)

ε ≈ 0.30

Low ε: less radiation loss, HOTTER surface at the same duty — check personnel-protection clearances.

FAQ

What is the emissivity of stainless-steel jacketing?

≈0.30 for typical surfaces (bright/new metal — ages upward as oxide forms).

When is stainless-steel jacketing the right choice?

fire-protection cases, chemical exposure, offshore, food-plant washdown zones.

What are the limits of stainless-steel jacketing?

2–3x aluminium price; heavier; higher emissivity than bright aluminium (slightly cooler surface, slightly higher loss).