Summary for melchior stainless steel Discussion
Melchior is not stainless steel, according to the answerer. In response to Peter Bunitsky’s question, the reply explains that stainless steel is an iron-based alloy containing chromium and sometimes nickel, while Melchior is mostly copper with enough nickel to give it a silvery look rather than a brass or bronze color. The answerer notes that U.S. quarters and dimes appear to be made from a similar alloy, and says Melchior has been used for flatware. On safety, the response is cautious but reassuring: the answerer has not heard of researchers warning against its dangers, though no broad guarantee is given because the exact item was not specified. The practical takeaway is that Melchior is a different material from stainless steel, and its suitability depends on the specific product and use.
Q. I am considering purchasing an item which is made from Melchior. Is this commonly used for ‘stainless steel’ ware in the US or other countries? Is is safe or are there other considerations when choosing an item made from this material?
Thanks for your help.
Peter Bunitsky
home owner – East Syracuse, New York, USA
April 22, 2019
A. Hi Peter. No, Melchior is not used in stainless steel. Stainless steel contains iron, chromium, sometimes nickel, and small amounts of other metals.
Melchior is mostly copper, but due to its nickel content it is silvery in appearance rather than brass or bronze colored. USA quarters and dimes seem to be made of a rather similar alloy. I don’t know what kind of “item” you are thinking of, but Melchoir has been used for flatware and I personally haven’t heard of any researchers railing against its dangers. Good luck.
Regards,
Ted Mooney, P.E. RET
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com – Pine Beach, New Jersey
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April 2019