Though we all know the advantages and benefits of stainless steel, most of us are not aware of its types. There are different types of stainless steel and they are used in different applications. Now let us briefly look into the types of stainless steel and their specialties.
Austenitic steels are most commonly used steel nowadays. Also called as 300 series, Austenitic stainless steel is made of 18% chromium and 8% nickel. In addition to this, other elements like nitrogen and manganese are also added. This type of stainless steel is highly corrosion resistance and can made into wires or made into thin sheet by hammering. They work good in low and high temperature. This type of stainless steel is used for making kitchen sinks, food processing equipment, chemical equipment, etc.
Martensitic steel is the first commercial produced steel. This type of stainless steel has high carbon content than its counterparts. In those days, this type of steel is used to make cutlery. In addition to corrosion resistance properties, this type of steel is much durable and strong than Austenitic steels. At present, these steels are used to manufacture pins, knife blades, spindles and surgical instruments.
Ferritic steels, also called as 400 series, has excellent corrosion resistant properties that they can be used safely in sea water. Ferritic steels are used in manufacturing washing machines and boilers.
Duplex stainless steel is made by fusing the basic components of ferritic steel and austenitic steel. Duplex stainless steel are used to make machinery and tools.
Precipitation hardening is basically a austenitic steel at initial stage and is converted by adding other elements. The main advantage of this type of steel is that they are strong, durable and can also be easily made into any shapes.