Three-layer stainless steel, also known as stainless steel composite plate, is a high-performance material that is made by combining two layers of stainless steel with an intermediate sandwich material through a special process. It not only retains the corrosion resistance and aesthetics of stainless steel, but also achieves lightweight, cost savings and functional enhancement through structural optimization. It is an "all-round player" in the fields of industry, construction and design.
Surface layer (outer layer)
Material: high-quality stainless steel such as 304, 316L (usually 0.1-0.5mm thick).
Function: Provide corrosion resistance, wear resistance and beautiful surface effects (such as brushed, mirrored, sandblasted, etc.).
Intermediate layer (sandwich)
Material: Commonly pure aluminum, aluminum alloy or carbon steel (thickness 0.5-3mm), a few use plastic or copper.
Function: Reduce the total weight of the material, save costs, enhance rigidity or sound insulation/heat insulation performance.
Bottom layer (optional)
Material: Choose stainless steel or other metals (such as titanium alloy) according to needs.
Manufacturing process: explosive compounding, hot rolling compounding, cold rolling compounding, etc., to ensure that the interlayer bonding is firm and seamless.
1. Lightweight design
Aluminum core can replace pure stainless steel to reduce weight by 30%-50%, reduce the load of building structure, and is suitable for large-span applications such as curtain walls and roofs.
2. High cost performance
The middle layer uses cheap materials (such as aluminum) to reduce the total cost, while the surface stainless steel ensures corrosion resistance and aesthetics.
3. Versatility
Sound insulation and heat insulation: The middle layer can block heat and noise, suitable for building exterior walls or industrial equipment.
Impact resistance: The composite structure is more resistant to deformation than single-layer stainless steel, suitable for ships and transportation equipment.
4. Convenient processing
Supports cutting, bending, and welding (pay attention to the melting point of the sandwich material), and designers can flexibly shape complex shapes.
1. Architecture and decoration
Curtain wall/roof: lightweight design reduces support structure, mirror or colored stainless steel enhances modernity.
Interior decoration: elevator panels, art installations, both beautiful and durable.
2. Industrial equipment
Chemical storage tank/reactor: surface corrosion resistance, middle layer enhances structural strength.
Food machinery: meets hygiene standards and is easy to clean.
3. Home appliances and consumer goods
High-end kitchenware: pots, oven shells, light and high temperature resistant.
Electronic equipment: mobile phone middle frame, laptop shell (precision stamping process required)
Key parameters
Total thickness (0.5-5mm), surface stainless steel grade, core material type, bonding strength (needs ≥210MPa).
Surface treatment options
Brushed (anti-fingerprint), mirror (high reflection), etched pattern (custom pattern), PVD plating (color stainless steel).
Supplier screening
Certification standards: ASTM A263 (explosive composite plate), ISO 22034 (stainless steel composite).
Test report: bonding strength, salt spray test (corrosion resistance), bending performance.
Cost optimization
Choose core material according to the application (for example, plastic core can be used in non-load-bearing scenarios).
feature | triple stainless steel | Single stainless steel |
weight | 30%-50% lighter | Heavier |
cost | 20%-40% lower | high |
Processing | Anti-delamination process required | Conventional processing |
Applicable scenarios | Large size/lightweight design | Small precision parts |
With its groundbreaking structure and exceptional performance, three-layer stainless steel is revolutionizing the way materials are used. For architects, it’s a game-changing solution that combines sleek, lightweight aesthetics with outstanding functionality. For buyers, it delivers the perfect balance between premium quality and cost efficiency. And for designers, its remarkable versatility opens the door to bold, boundary-pushing creativity. As composite technology continues to evolve, this next-generation material is poised to become a cornerstone of sustainable, future-forward design.