| |
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
Stainless Steel
What is Stainless Steel?
Stainless Steel is an alloy containing mostly iron, and at least 10.5% chrome. Additional alloying elements of Copper, Molybdenum, Titanium and Nickel are added in varying amounts to provide strength, toughness and to provide additional corrosion resistance to salt chemicals and also cold working ability. Non-metallic elements such as Carbon and Nitrogen are also added.
Stainless Steel is divided into four main groups:
Austenetic
Typically 18% Chrome with 8-12% Nickel, these grades are non magnetic and are
used extensively in the petrochemical, catering and marine industries.
Feritic
13-17% Chrome with a low carbon content, these grades are magnetic and cannot be
hardened by heat treatment
Martensitic
Typically 12% Chrome with a higher carbon content than the feritic
types. Also magnetic but can be hardened by normal quenching and tempering
techniques. Commonly used in the production of cutlery and also in the
aerospace industry.
Duplex Stainless
Used where both strength and corrosion resistance is needed. Cannot be hardened
by heat treatment. The metallic structure is a combination of austenite and
ferrite.
Stainless steel and its corrosion and oxidising resistance
As a general rule, the higher the chromium content of stainless steel the higher the corrosion resistance. When nickel is added to create the austenitic steel the oxide film is strengthened and increases the durability in more aggressive environments. If molybdenum is added to either austenitic or ferritic stainless steel the pitting and corrosion resistance is greatly improved.
In the following pages you will see the range of grades and sizes that Myriad Metals can offer. If what you require is not listed we are able to obtain your specialised requirements on realistic lead times and at competitive prices.