Designed for Fire: Why 430 Stainless Steel Is the Right Choice

Why We Use 430 Stainless Steel

The ArcPit and ArcMate accessories are built from 430-grade stainless steel because it performs better where it matters most — high heat, open flame, and repeated campfire use.

Unlike decorative or marine-grade stainless steels, 430 stainless is specifically suited to fire pits, BBQs, and cooking surfaces that experience extreme temperature changes.

Engineered for Heat, Not Just Looks

When heated during use, 430 stainless steel forms a protective chromium oxide layer across the surface.
This layer becomes more stable and effective under high temperatures, helping to:

• Protect the steel during intense heat
• Reduce scaling and surface breakdown
• Improve durability through repeated heating and cooling cycles

In short — the more you use it, the better it performs.

Built for Real Campfire Conditions

Fire pits and BBQs don’t live in controlled environments. They’re exposed to:

• Direct flame
• Hot coals
• Rapid temperature changes
• Long burn sessions

430 stainless steel is widely used in commercial grills, fire pits, and ovens because it offers:

• Excellent heat tolerance
• Lower thermal expansion (less movement and warping)
• Strong structural stability at cooking temperatures

This makes it ideal for gear that’s designed to go from tyre to fire, again and again.

Designed for Real-World Campfire Cooking

Under normal campfire and cooking conditions — hot coals, open flame, and controlled fires — the ArcPit and accessories operate well within their engineered limits.

Used as intended, 430 stainless steel provides the ideal balance of:

• Heat resistance
• Durability
• Stability through repeated fire cycles

Heat Limits & Responsible Use

Like all materials, stainless steel has a maximum temperature it is designed to withstand.
430-grade stainless steel performs exceptionally well in campfire and BBQ conditions, however consistent exposure to temperatures above approximately 870°C can begin to affect the material.

When steel is repeatedly overheated beyond this range, you may notice:

• Changes in surface colour or finish
• Accelerated surface oxidation
• Reduced structural integrity over time

These effects are not defects — they are the natural result of prolonged extreme heat beyond the intended operating range of the material.

Charcoal, Moisture & Material Care

Charcoal is highly absorbent. When charcoal or ash is left in the base of the ArcPit for extended periods, it can trap moisture from the environment. Over time, this moisture combines with residual combustion by-products to create a chemically aggressive environment against stainless steel surfaces.

This reaction can:

• Accelerate surface oxidation
• Break down the protective surface layer more quickly
• Lead to faster material wear if left unchecked

This is a natural process and can occur with any stainless steel fire pit when charcoal and moisture are allowed to sit in contact with the steel for prolonged periods.

Best Practice for Longevity

To maximise the lifespan of your ArcPit:

• Allow the pit to cool completely after use (naturally)
• Remove charcoal and ash once cold
• Store dry and away from exposure to elements, such as water, sun or salt.

Simple post-use care helps preserve the steel and ensures your ArcPit continues performing as designed.

 

Research conducted by ArcMate 2023

* Stainless steel *high temperature