These properties are caused by the stainless steel’s natural ability to form a protective oxide layer. Due to their limited corrosion resistance their applications are also limited.Įspecially because of its specific, corrosion resistant properties, stainless steel is widely used. To a large extent chromium steels have the same properties as ordinary structural steel, but with the big difference that they are passive, and remain passive as long as highly corrosive environments are avoided. We call these chromium steels or ferritic stainless steels. Various types of stainless steel only contain chromium as the major alloying element. Other elements that are added include nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), carbon (C), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), sulphur (S), nitrogen (N) and selenium (Se). In addition a large number of elements are added to give the stainless steel specific properties. New or modified alloys are being developed all the time. Currently there are around 200 different alloys that are classified as stainless steels. What is stainless steel?Ī steel can be called stainless when it contains at least 12% chromium. The final result is that the stainless steel looses some of its corrosion resistant properties and consequently (corrosion) damages may occur, depending on application and usage. The many handlings that stainless steel is undergoing during construction phase and sometimes during transportation, can lead to damage of this oxide layer. This oxide-skin however, is extremely thin and therefore very vulnerable. It is found everywhere, from the springs in tanks to the fuel lines carrying vehicle exhausts.Especially because of its specific, corrosion resistant properties, stainless steel is widely used. Since WW2, stainless steel has also played a key role in the defense sector. A good quality piece of stainless steel serves as a buffer against the damaging effects of wind and water, maintaining safety and stability. When it comes to infrastructure, the corrosion resistance of stainless steel helps extend the lifespan of structural and architectural projects. In the medical industry, stainless steel is found in nearly all the equipment that doctors use in their work as well as the many of the small, intricate parts of hospital machinery (such as the EKG or ECG) for monitoring patients. These applications can include food handling/processing (i.e., kitchen sinks, cutlery), medical instruments (i.e., thermostats), hardware, appliances, and structural/architectural uses (i.e., bridges, airport roofs). Unlike ordinary steel, stainless isn’t prone to corrosion, rusting or staining from water exposure – giving it many versatile applications. The most common of these steps include hot rolling, cold rolling, annealing, descaling/ pickling, cutting and finishing. You can have everything from stainless steel tubing and stainless steel pipes to a stainless steel bar and stainless steel sheet.ĭepending on which grade or shape is being produced, a piece of stainless steel may go through some processing steps multiple times before reaching the desired appearance or characteristics. Stainless steel also comes in many different shapes and dimensions. There are more than 100 grades of stainless steel – most are classified into five groups in the family of stainless steels: The exact composition is strictly measured and assessed throughout the alloying process to ensure the steel demonstrates the required qualities. Other elements can be added to increase corrosion resistance (nickel) and formability (molybdenum). This type of steel also contains varied amounts of other elements such as carbon, silicon and manganese. Once stainless steel is put into service, it does not need to be treated, coated or painted.īesides resistance to corrosion, stainless steel is known for its: This layer prevents corrosion from occurring on the steel surface the greater the amount of chromium in the steel, the greater the corrosion resistance. The chromium content produces a thin chromium oxide film on the steel’s surface called a passivation layer. Stainless steel is an iron alloy that has a minimum chromium content of 10.5%.
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