One of the significant reasons why stainless steel is known as a miracle metal is its versatility. With such desirable traits, the demand for stainless steel stock is substantial. The composition of stainless steel allows the metal to be altered to fabricate another type of metal, which may better suit a particular application or industrial task requirements.
In other words, the basic properties of stainless steel, including strength, flexibility, malleability, and resistance to corrosion, can be utilized in a broader range of situations. Different stainless steel alloys are fabricated by creating various metals like chromium, nickel, and zinc, etc. during the manufacturing process. The process then leads to the accentuation of even more desirable properties in the manufactured alloy used for specific working environments.
There are 5 types of stainless steel used in varied industrial purposes and applications, depending upon their composition and properties. These are backed by a level of benefits that render their natural usability, uniqueness, and advantages over their counterparts.
Also referred to as the 300 series, Austenitic is the most commonly used. Made of 18% chromium and 8% nickel, this steel also contains nitrogen and manganese elements. Furthermore, this series is highly resistant to corrosion and extremely flexible, making it an ideal solution for drawing wires and fabricating thin sheets.
When it comes to making cutleries, martensitic is the most commercially utilized steel. With its high carbon and 18% chromium, this steel also contains traces of molybdenum and nickel. The variety is less durable but can be used in high temperatures, thanks to its hardness. Besides, it can also resist corrosion caused by environmental factors.
Popularly known as 400 series, ferritic contains 10.5% of carbon along with 27% chromium. Ferritic steel is known for its magnetic properties. However, it is not as ductile as other varieties such as martensitic and austenitic steels. It doesn’t get hardened when treated with extreme heat and is highly resistant to corrosion; this makes it of great use in sea water. Ferritic steel is ideally used for making boilers, washing machines, exhaust systems, and car trims.
When mixed, the basic components of austenitic and ferritic result in duplex steel. Known for its high content of chromium and low content of nickel, this steel portrays the best of both. Duplex is hence known for certain desirable properties such as resistance to corrosion, magnetism, and the ability to withstand stress and flexibility. These qualities make duplex a favorable metal for use in marine conditions.
Austenitic in nature, precipitation hardening has the addition of other elements as well. On alteration, this metal gains toughness, hardness, and durability. On heating to a sufficiently high temperature, this steel type can be shaped into any favorable form. This type is usually required in manufacturing aircraft parts and the creation of shafts and pumps.
If you’re looking for the largest variety of stainless steel stock in the region, contact Alliant Metals. Specializing in stainless steel, our company has become a nationally renowned metals distributor, known for efficiency and superior service. Call us today at (800) 543-1453.
