As the world continues to modernize, people are constantly on the lookout for new ways to make their lives easier. Stainless steel is one of those materials that have made a significant impact in recent years due to its many benefits.
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However, to better understand how to use this material, it is important to know a few things about it first. Here are 10 things you need to know about this precious metal:
It’s made up of iron, chromium, and nickel. Chromium gives the steel its shiny appearance and resistance to rust while nickel adds its strength and durability. Combined, these properties make this material ideal for a wide array of applications.
This alloy comes in four major grades according to the crystal structure of steel, namely: ferritic, austenitic, martensitic, and duplex steel alloys. Each of these alloys has its unique properties which make them better suited for specific applications.
Harry Brearley, a famous metallurgist in Sheffield, invented the first stainless steel in while looking for a solution to stop the corrosion of gun barrels for the British Army.
The thermal expansion property of this metal makes it expand and contract slightly in response to temperature changes. When the temperature rises, the metal expands. Likewise, when the temperature falls, the metal contracts.
This alloy is susceptible to corrosion when exposed to high temperatures. Corrosion happens when chromium oxide – the layer protecting the surface of this metal, breaks down when exposed to high heat, allowing oxygen to reach the metal. Subsequently, this causes the metal to rust.
Iron oxide is a chemical compound – usually red-brown, which forms on the surface of steel when iron and oxygen combine. Vinegar contains acetic acid which helps to dissolve iron oxide, leaving the surface of steel smooth and shiny.
If scratched, damaged, or when in contact with acidic foods, some stainless steels can leach metals into food. And while the amount of metal that leaches into food is generally considered to be low, it can still be a health concern, particularly for people with sensitivities or allergies to metals.
It’s a 100% recyclable material, and can be used time and again without losing any of its quality. Plus, it doesn’t release any harmful toxins or chemicals into the environment.
This alloy contains a small amount of ferrite – a type of iron that is magnetic. When exposed to a strong magnetic field, the ferrite can become magnetized and cause the steel to be attracted to the magnet. Although, martensitic stainless steels are generally magnetic without this exposure.
With a high melting point ranging between °F and °F, this alloy is considered a fire-resistant material. Additionally, this metal is non-combustible, meaning it will not ignite in the presence of flames or heat.
Since its inception over 100 years ago, stainless steel has become one of the most popular and versatile materials in the world. From an interesting invention to its important properties, this amazing metal is sure to be a mainstay in the world for many years to come.
Whether you’re a contractor looking for materials for a new building or a homeowner searching for steel for your DIY project, please contact New Mexico Metals LLC, the leading stainless steel supplier in Albuquerque.
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Here are some of the top eight Questions and Answers on Stainless Steel!
As experts in the field of stainless steel, we are often asked questions about this metal and its many properties, attributes and applications.
Read on to learn from our top Questions and Answers on Stainless Steel.
Stainless steel is an alloy which means that it consists of different materials. When steel has a chromium content of more than 10.5% it is considered to be ‘stainless’.
When this chromium is combined with oxygen it forms a thin, sealed, fixed-adhering, chromic-oxide layer – the so-called passive layer. It is this passive layer that give stainless steel its distinctive corrosion resistance. While not truly stainless, even the most basic stainless steel alloys have an ability to withstand the elements and maintain their shine.
The variety of alloying elements that make up different grades of stainless steels is what allows it to have a range of properties and subsequently be so versatile with many applications.
One of the important developments in the last 10 years is the emergence of highly-alloyed grades of stainless steel. ‘Super-austenitic’, ‘super-ferritic’ and ‘super-duplex’ grades have been developed to be used in the most demanding conditions.
Higher temperatures accelerate rates of corrosion whereas lower temperatures require increased strength. The right choice of stainless steel is crucial to protect it against corrosion.
Higher strength is provided by austenitic, duplex, martensitic and PH steels are usually considered the ‘strongest’. However, the environment it is in can greatly affect a metals performance.
Austenitic steels are thought to be the most weldable, however duplex steels can also be welded if handled with care. Ferritic steels can be welded but it needs to be done in thin sections.
How does one metal get to be used in so many applications! From the humble teaspoon, to the inner workings of a MRI machine, to underground pipe in the depths of the ocean, all the way to the lofty heights of the Chrysler Building, stainless steel is everywhere you look! Within heavy industries, the applications include:
To ensure the best match of properties, a suitable design and manufacturing process, it is important to consider the following requirements:
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Stainless Steel Pipes.