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Stainless steel is generally referred to an iron-based alloy that contains more than 12% chromium in its alloy composition. As the amount of chromium, nickel and molybdenum in the composition of stainless steels increases and their corrosion resistance increases. High temperature oxidation resistance of some stainless steel grade has made them suitable for high temperatures application. The most common stainless steels are 304 and 316.
Austenitic steel contains 16 to 26 percent chromium and up to 35 percent nickel, usually has high corrosion resistance. Austenitic stainless steel contains a maximum of 0.08% carbon. The most common type of austenitic stainless steel is grade 304, which contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. This steel is compatible in applications such as aircraft and the dairy and food industries.
Most Common Stainless Steel
One of the most common types of steel grade is 304 austenitic stainless steel. Due to the high content of chromium and nickel, it is a suitable choice for manufacturing equipment for chemical processes, food, dairy and beverage industries. This grade has an excellent combination of strength, corrosion resistance and buildability.
316 stainless grade contains 18% chromium, 14% nickel and molybdenum. These compounds increase the corrosion resistance of steel. Particularly, molybdenum is used to control the corrosion zone. This type of steel can withstand temperatures up to 1600 Fahrenheit. applications of Grade 316 is chemical industry, paper and pulp industries, for processing and distribution of food and beverages and in more corrosive environments. It is also good choice in the marine industry due to its corrosion resistance.
Super Alloy
Nowadays, The steel industry add special components to stainless steels composition and use advanced vacuum production methods to achieve the desired micro structure and eventually has produced super-alloys. Super alloy in comparison with common types of stainless steels, have much better mechanical strength and much higher corrosion and heat resistance.