The Various Types of Stainless Steel

An alloy of iron, with a minimum of 10% chromium, stainless steel is a popular material in the construction industry. The use of chromium forms a thin layer of oxide on the steel surface, which is also known as a passive layer. It prevents the corrosion of the surface for stainless steel. Given these qualities and other useful properties of the metal, architects and contractors make use of it extensively in the construction business. 

There are countless variations of stainless steel depending on the requirement and application of the metal. Each of these varieties has its own properties in terms of strength, melting point, ductility, flexibility, oxidation, and corrosion resistance. Stainless steel manufacturers in India produce all varieties of stainless steel to match the rising demands of a developing nation. For you to understand the different types of steels produced and make an informed decision for the best-suited metal for your projects, we have listed some of the most common types of stainless steel present in the market. 

• Ferritic Stainless Steel: Based on chromium mixed with small quantities of carbon, ferritic stainless steel has a microstructure that is similar to both carbon and low alloy steels. In comparison to other variations of stainless steel, this particular type is limited to the use of relatively thin sections as it lacks toughness in welds. However, it is often used by contractors in a large number of spaces that do not require welding. Ferritic stainless steel cannot be hardened by using the heating treatment. It is magnetic but not as formable as other variations. 

• Austenitic Stainless Steel: This is one of the most common types of stainless steel produced and used extensively in the construction business. The microstructure includes a mix of Nitrogen, Nickel, and Manganese. In high a high-temperature environment, this steel becomes more formable and weldable making the structure of austenitic steel pretty similar to that of regular steel. This variety can also be made corrosion resistant by adding Chromium, Molybdenum, and Nitrogen. One of the beneficial characteristics of austenitic stainless steel is its property of retaining its level of ductility and toughness when hardened to high strength. The authentic variety of this steel is susceptible to developing cracks due to corrosion, which can be tackled with a higher nickel content in its manufacturing. 

• Martensitic Stainless Steel: On the same lines as ferritic stainless steel, martensitic is also based on chromium but with higher levels of carbon. Due to this combination, the metal can be hardened and tempered much like carbon and other low alloy steels. This variety of stainless steel is put to use in areas that require a moderate level of corrosion resistance and higher strength. It is one of the magnetic stainless steels and has a lower tolerance for formability and weldability.

• A better understanding of the types of stainless steel will help you make an informed decision. If you are looking for stainless steel or planning to buy steel plates, JSW is one of the best steel manufacturers in the country. They have state of the art facilities that make use of the latest technology to manufacture their products.