Black stainless steel: The new champion in appliance manufacturing

Since its release, there has been much talk over black stainless steel. Black stainless steel appliances are emerging big on the trends. 

So what is it, and why is it growing in popularity?

Simply put, black stainless steel is a coating applied over stainless steel. This coating minimises any light reflection. It is the composition of silicon, chromium, iron, nickel and carbon in addition to the protective polymer coating, which gives it a black matte finish. The dark translucent finish also has a top coat, making it less prone to fingerprints.

Compared to regular stainless steel, black stainless steel is bold and fresh. While it is not yet close to taking over traditional stainless steel, especially in the case of appliance manufacturing, it is undoubtedly on the upswing. 

Applications of black stainless steel: -

Black stainless steel is generally used to manufacture consumer goods and appliances like refrigerators, washers and dryers, stoves and dishwashers.

Black stainless steel advantages :-

1. Smudge and Fingerprint resistance – 

   Conventional stainless steel is much more prone to smudges and fingerprints due to its metallic surface, which translates into extra work for you to keep it clean.

2. Its trendy – 

   Black stainless steel complements many colour schemes and design concepts because of its matte finish, which feels warmer than standard stainless steel.

3. A statement piece – 

   Appliances made of black stainless steel serve as statement pieces, especially in kitchens. With the concept of an open kitchen becoming the norm, statement appliances continue to grow in demand.

4. Scratch resistant – 

   Unlike conventional stainless steel, black stainless steel is more scratch resistant because of its solid, homogeneous surface.

5. Timeless – 

   As sophisticated and stylish as the colour black is, it is also a universal colour. Black is a prominent colour that matches nearly every other colour and warm and cold tones, making black stainless steel appliances timeless and easy to use with different colours and shades.

Disadvantages of black stainless steel – 

1. Clash of different black coatings – Stainless steel appliances generally have a clear or tinted top coat, making them traditional stainless. On the other hand, black stainless has a darker tint coating of charcoal grey colour which also gives it a more premium look. Black stainless steel finishes also negate mould growth. The colour of these appliances does not change until abrasives are used while washing or cleaning.

2. Scratches – Black stainless steel is scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof. It is much more visible than ordinary stainless steel if it gets scratched. The coating on this steel may also peel off easily.

3. Expensive – Black stainless steel appliances are a lot costlier than stainless steel.

Is Black stainless steel here to stay?

The white goods industry is expected to witness a CAGR of 11% till 2025, aided by the increased demand for new and innovative products and fulfilled supply. 

The appliances industry in India is highly concerted, with goods like refrigerators, ACs and washing machines capturing over 75% of the market share, which presents a lucrative opportunity for appliance MSMEs. India FY 21 Exports for these categories amounted to a whopping $571 Mn. This is a positive sign for the MSMEs in this industry. Ease of entry and supportive government policies like PLI make running this business easy. 

As people are coming to better appreciate and relish their living spaces, black accents and appliances are not just the rage but are also leading the way in modern houses, and for good reasons. The timeless appeal of black stainless steel holds up well and an increasing number of people are opting for this dark hue.