A metal car being built in an El Paso warehouse.

Stainless Steel in the Automotive Industry

Since the early 1900s, the automotive industry has been one of the most important industries in the American economy. As the industry has continued to evolve, many materials and metals have been used to build and repair vehicles. Among those many materials, stainless steel has been and remains a dominant force. 

As such, stainless steel suppliers are a vital and essential force in the automotive industry. Therefore, if you make, restore, or repair auto parts, it’s important to have access to a stainless steel supplier with quality products on demand. That’s why Chaparral Steel in El Paso is here to help. Contact us online or call (575) 824-7796 to learn more about our products and services.

6 Uses For Stainless Steel in the Automotive Industry

While it isn’t the only material used in the automotive industry, here are some of the most popular ways in which it gets implemented. 

Exhaust Systems 

Although it’s a hidden part of your vehicle and one you seldom think of, the exhaust system is also one of the most important. In addition to providing a quiet, comfortable ride, your exhaust system is responsible for removing dangerous gases from your car. Because stainless steel is extremely lightweight and durable, it’s a great material to use with exhaust systems. 

Catalytic Converters 

While ceramic used to be the preferred material for catalytic converters, stainless steel has become the new favorite. Stainless steel is lightweight, durable, and can conduct electricity, which are all things ceramic can’t do. Thanks to these properties, catalytic converters made of stainless steel perform better than those that don’t. An El Paso stainless steel supplier can provide the steel for these catalytic converters.

Gas Tanks 

Cleanliness is absolutely essential when it comes to your gas tank, which is why tanks made of stainless steel are superior to those made of other materials. 

Gaskets and Fittings 

Finally, stainless steel is a great metal to use in the construction of gaskets and fittings in the automotive industry. Although these parts are small and hidden, they need to stand up to heat, corrosion, rust, and excessive wear and tear, all of which stainless steel helps them do. 

Advantages of Stainless Steel For Automotive Parts

Structural Integrity and Strength 

One of the biggest advantages of stainless steel is that it’s one of the strongest metals you can use in the automotive industry. As such, vehicles made of stainless steel provided by trusted stainless steel suppliers tend to have better crash ratings than those that are not. 

Extra Protective Film 

Although it isn’t quite as resistant to rust as aluminum, stainless steel has a high resistance to corrosion and rust. As such, it makes a great protective film for your car’s exterior, especially in moist or snowy areas. 

Reasonably Lightweight 

When it comes to combining a lightweight and sturdy design, stainless steel is the best option available. It’s light enough to offer good gas mileage but not so light that it will crumple like paper in a collision. 

Contact Chaparral Steel For Your Stainless Steel Needs

If you need stainless steel to build, design, or modify car parts, Chaparral Steel in El Paso can help. We’re a leading stainless steel supplier in the Southwest and are sure to have what you need. Although we don’t offer car parts as a whole, we do supply stainless steel sheets, plates, tubes, and more, which are essential components for many aspects of the automotive industry. Call (575) 824-7796 today to learn more!