It is an iron alloy with at least 10.5% chromium. The reason for the chromium used in this steel is to prevent corrosion and rusting of the steel. The noticeable  point here is that as the amount of chromium increases, the resistance of this steel to corrosion also increases. In this article, from espriss,  we want to talk about stainless steel completely from A to Z . Stay with us in the future.

In general, the chromium content used in stainless steel is about 12 to 20 percent. In addition to chromium, this type of steel contains amounts such as carbon, silicon and manganese, which make stainless steel have excellent properties. Other elements such as nickel and molybdenum are added to stainless steel to add other elements such as good ductility and increased corrosion resistance.

Stainless steel can be recycled.

Metal recycling is considered as a profitable business opportunity; Because steel is a global commodity and there is enough demand for it. Many metals can be recycled repeatedly; Without changing their properties. Stainless steel is one of the types of metals that cannot be decomposed and is 100% recyclable. Today, the demand for stainless steel is increasing, and this feature of recyclability has made this type of steel have many fans.

Stainless steel is durable.

Due to its excellent mechanical and corrosion properties, stainless steel applications can be seen in various industries; Because if this steel is used, the maintenance costs are lower and the life of the used steel is extended.

Stainless steel does not have any risks to human health.

Stainless steel is easy to clean and does not easily produce bacteria; Therefore, it is widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industry. As mentioned, stainless steel is 100% recyclable and is actually kind of environment lover. An important fact to note is that stainless steel does not remain in the environment and decomposes; Therefore, it can be concluded that it will not cause any danger to humans and animals.

Stainless steel is economical.

Stainless steel is not only a good choice for the environment, but also quite economical. If the correct grade of stainless steel is chosen for the application, it can last for the duration of the project, and it cause to  saving maintenance costs as well as inspection costs over its lifetime. This type of steel, due to its high durability properties, can maintain its original shape in the worst conditions. 

Types of stainless steel

In general, there are different types of stainless steel, which include:

• Austenitic stainless steels (200 and 300 series)

The most common stainless steels are austenitic steels, which are divided into 200 series and 300 series. The austenitic structure of the 300 series is obtained by adding nickel. While the 200 series is prepared by adding manganese and nitrogen. The most common austenitic stainless steel is grade 304, which is called 18-8 steel because it contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel.

• Ferritic stainless steels (400 series)

This type of stainless steel has good magnetic, physical and mechanical properties. And their most constituent elements are chromium and a small amount of carbon less than (0.1) percent. Ferritic stainless steels are used in making household appliances, faucets and decorations

• Martensitic stainless steel (400 and 500 series)

These types of steel are 400 grade stainless steel. They have low to medium carbon and 12-15% chromium and 1% molybdenum. They are magnetic and have high plasticity. Martensitic stainless steel is used in places where corrosion and oxidation resistance along with high strength at low temperature or creep resistance at high temperature are required.

Duplex alloys

This type of steel has a combination of austenitic and ferritic steel structure and its content consists of 22% chromium, 25% molybdenum and 5% nickel. This type of steel has good resistance to cracking due to corrosion, weak magnetic properties, moderate ductility and can be welded.

This type of steel is used in petrochemical and shipbuilding industries.

• Hardened stainless steel(Precipitation-Hardening or PH)

In addition to chromium and nickel, this type of steel contains copper and aluminum, and during heat treatment, it is hardened and its strength increases. 17Cr-4Ni stainless steels, which are abbreviated as 17-14 PH, are in this group.

These types of steels have the highest tensile strength among all stainless steels. And they are used in the construction of nuclear waste tanks and engine parts.

How is stainless steel made?

The production of stainless steel includes a series of processes, which include:

1. Melting of raw materials
2. Removal of carbon content
3. Continuous casting
4. Formation
5. Hot rolling or heat treatment & activities .
6. Cold rolling
7. Annealing
8. Descaling
9. Cutting
10. Completing work

Advantages of using stainless steel

• Resistant to corrosion
• Resistant to stretching , abrasion and erosion
• Welding capability
• Resistant to high temperature
• Being hygienic
• High electrical conductivity
• High durability and no need to repair