What are stainless steel alloys made of?

 Stainless steel pipe fittings

 What are stainless steel alloys made of?

By definition, stainless steel is an iron alloy containing at least 10.5% chromium. The types of alloys available on the market vary widely, and the exact chemical composition of each alloy varies. Alloying elements such as nickel, molybdenum, carbon, nitrogen, titanium and copper can improve the durability, formability and other properties of stainless steel.

In order to qualify as stainless steel, it must meet the requirements for corrosion resistance in a given environment. This resistance comes from the outer layer of chromium oxide of the metal. This microscopic surface film is known as the passivation layer because it naturally interacts with the oxygen present in the surrounding air and prevents subsequent corrosion. In addition, if the layer encounters any damage, such as scratches or nicks, it can repair itself.

 

What are the beneficial properties of stainless steel?

Obviously, the main characteristic of stainless steel is its resistance to corrosion. Different alloys offer different levels of resistance. For example, 304 stainless steel, probably the most popular stainless steel alloy in the world, offers all-around excellent corrosion resistance. However, when it comes to the marine environment, 304 is not well suited because it is particularly susceptible to chlorides, which are certainly present in seawater. Instead, applications in the marine environment should probably turn to stainless steel 316 fittings, which offer the added benefit of 2% molybdenum.

Stainless steel offers a variety of other benefits. Compared to ordinary steel, stainless steel alloys offer higher low-temperature strength, higher work toughness, greater strength and durability, higher ductility, more attractive appearance, and lower maintenance costs. With all this going on, it's no wonder stainless steel is so prevalent in so many industries, including pipe fittings.

Because each alloy behaves differently, it is important to be able to distinguish between them. Stainless steel alloys are divided into five different families, each with its own characteristics. The five families are austenitic, ferritic, martensitic, duplex, and precipitation hardening.

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