Because we’re a metal distributor specializing in stainless steel products, our team at Alliant Metals spends a lot of time thinking about stainless steel. Sometimes we forget that our customers don’t live in the world of stainless steel and aren’t familiar with all the details of our products. Occasionally, a customer will ask us the most basic of questions: What is stainless steel?
Put simply, stainless steel is an iron alloy. An alloy is created by combining iron with other elements to enhance performance characteristics such as strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. Stainless steel can contain various alloying elements, including chromium, nickel, silicon, manganese, carbon, and nitrogen. By adjusting the proportions of these elements, manufacturers can produce stainless steel grades that meet specific industry standards and application requirements.
While each element contributes to stainless steel’s overall performance, chromium is widely considered the most critical. Chromium is a hard, corrosion-resistant transition metal that gives stainless steel its signature ability to resist rust and staining. When chromium is added to steel—typically at a minimum of about 10.5 percent—it forms a thin, invisible oxide layer on the surface. This layer protects the metal from moisture, air, and other corrosive elements. The higher the chromium content, the greater the corrosion resistance, making chromium a defining feature of stainless steel.
Other elements play essential supporting roles. Nickel improves toughness and formability; manganese increases strength; carbon affects hardness; and nitrogen enhances both strength and corrosion resistance. Together, these elements create a material that is not only strong and long-lasting but also adaptable to a wide range of environments.
Because of its corrosion resistance, cleanliness, and dependability, stainless steel is widely used in industries that demand reliability and hygiene. Architecture, automotive manufacturing, food processing, dentistry, and the medical field all rely on stainless steel products that withstand moisture, frequent cleaning, and harsh conditions.
No matter which stainless steel products you need, understanding the composition of the metal will help you make the best choice for your industry. And if you’re still not clear on all the details, don’t worry! Our team at Alliant Metals is here to offer expert advice to ensure you receive the best materials for your project. Contact us today to learn more.
