Stainless steel (SS) is an alloy of steel -itself an alloy of iron and carbon – with a minimum of 10.5% chromium content. Carbon steel rusts readily when exposed to air and moisture. In SS, however the chromium present undergoes passivation, forming an inert layer of chromium oxide on the surface. This layer prevents further corrosion of the underlying metal.
Hence SS alloys are used widely in precision pipe fittings. SS pipe fittings suppliers find a great deal of demand for their products across many industries. Let us have a look at SS and its properties:
Characteristics
Stainless steel is notable for its corrosion resistance as mentioned above. It does not easily corrode, rust or stain in the presence of air or water. It does not need paint or other surface finishes for protection. SS is durable, long lasting, low maintenance, and lustrous making it an ideal material for many applications.
Uses
Stainless steel is used where the strength of steel and corrosion resistance are required.
Types of SS alloys
SS pipe fittings suppliers use various grades of stainless steel to suit the environment the alloy must operate in. Many other elements such as – molybdenum, nitrogen, manganese, nickel etc. are added –to obtain additional properties. Heat treatment is also done.
Types of stainless steel alloys based on crystalline structure are:
There are over 150 grades of stainless steel available out of which 15 grades see a lot of industrial use.