Tech Info

All the “rusted” parts are corten steel.

Now, the reason Corten steel looks rusted is because, well, technically it is, but not as you know it. Corten steel has a partially rusted surface, a thin layer of metal oxide that does not compromise the integrity of the metal itself (like normal rust would). This layer actually protects the metal itself from the elements and ensures it retains its strength and longevity without suffering the gradual corrosion that normal steel or iron is privy too. Iron oxide would continue to eat its way through the metal under normal circumstances, but the special alloy that makes up Corten steel allows it to form a thin layer on the surface without invading the core of the sheet.

What’s more, this protective layer is able to repair and regenerate itself, requiring very little maintenance. The dark brown or ochre-ish hue that makes Corten steel so recognizable is quickly becoming a style unto itself, with artists and engineers alike queuing up to take advantage of its bold colour and weather proof properties for art and architectural purposes.

All the silver looking parts are marine grade stainless steel.

This is the highest grade of stainless steel available. Over time and depending on the environment you might discover so called tea stains, which are more or less a residue from air and water pollution on the surface of the steel. The stains will not deteriorate the material. See maintenance instructions.

All the blue/green parts are brass.

A blue/green patina has been applied. It can vary in appearance from photos on my webpage. The patina might slightly change over many years but it depends on the environment it is in.

All moving parts

…rotate on stainless steel ball bearings. The bearings are sealed and have their own grease filling and are maintenance free.

CORTEN STEEL:

Corten steel is basically maintenance free. Should the steel be soiled by bird droppings, they can be removed with warm water or a high pressure water jet.

STAINLESS STEEL:

So-called tea stains appear on stainless steel due to air or water pollution.
Tea Stains can be easily avoided by keeping the stainless clean. The stains are only on the surface and do not influence the life span of the material. A good product to remove the stains is Autosol Metal Polish (Av. at Bunnings, Repco and others ). See the Autosol website here for other metal cleaning products: https://autosol.com.au

I would recommend to move all moving parts once a year by hand to check if the movement of the bearings is still smooth.

Mirror polished stainless steel should be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft cloth.

Occasional hosing down with water is advisable to prevent dust from baking onto the metal.

All bearings are maintenance free.