Stainless steel is one of the most durable and corrosion-resistant types of steel. It contains a minimum of 10.5% chromium in its composition. As a result, stainless steel is unaffected by external factors and moisture, allowing it to be used for a long time. In addition, stainless steel offers aesthetic appeal and provides solutions for various needs, primarily in construction and architectural fields.
Types of Stainless Steel
Stainless steel has a wide range of applications due to its various alloys and elements. Different types of stainless steel, commonly used in various fields, differ in terms of grades, classes, standards, and features. Stainless steel is classified using various standard numbering systems. According to the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) classification, which is widely used worldwide, stainless steels are presented in series such as 200, 300, 400, and 600. Each series has distinct properties based on its composition and performance characteristics. The main types of stainless steel are as follows:
Austenitic Stainless Steel
Austenitic stainless steel is among the most commonly used types of stainless steel. Containing 16-26% chromium and 6-22% nickel, this type of steel is widely used in industrial applications due to its high-temperature resistance and ease of shaping. Its high corrosion resistance also makes it a preferred choice in the automotive industry.
Ferritic Stainless Steel
Ferritic stainless steels have a low carbon content and contain 10-18% chromium. This type of steel, which is magnetic, offers moderate corrosion resistance and is more cost-effective than austenitic steels. It is often preferred in decorative and structural applications.
Martensitic Stainless Steel
Containing 12-18% chromium and a low amount of nickel, martensitic stainless steel is a highly durable type of steel with high hardness. Its corrosion resistance is lower than other types, but it is hardened through heat treatment for use.
Duplex Stainless Steel
Duplex stainless steels are a combination of austenitic and ferritic steels, offering high strength and excellent corrosion resistance. Known for their high durability and strength, these types are widely used in the marine and petrochemical industries.
Precipitation Hardening Stainless Steel
This type of stainless steel is a specialized alloy that gains high strength and hardness through heat treatment. Precipitation hardening stainless steel is preferred in industries requiring high performance, such as aerospace and aviation.
Features of Stainless Steel
Due to its features, stainless steel is used in various fields, especially industrial applications. The most notable feature of stainless steel is its high resistance to corrosion. In addition to this resistance, it also provides numerous advantages:
- Stainless steel is highly resistant to impacts, abrasions, and high temperatures due to its mechanical properties. This makes it suitable for use in harsh environmental conditions.
- The smooth surface of stainless steel does not trap dust and dirt, making it highly practical for cleaning. It is especially preferred in food production facilities and the medical field, where hygiene is critical.
- With its bright and modern surface, stainless steel is aesthetically appealing. It is often used in building facades, kitchen equipment, and designs.
- Stainless steel is durable and long-lasting. Issues such as deformation or rusting over time are not encountered, making it economically advantageous.
- Being a recyclable material, stainless steel also contributes to sustainability in industrial applications.
Companies Engaged in Stainless Steel Processing, Import, and Export
Companies that process, import, and export stainless steel produce products to meet the needs of customers in various industries. As Hursan Stainless Steel Processing, we professionally meet the needs of both national and international customers. For more information about the scrap stainless steel products we process and recycle, please visit our website at https://hursanstainless.com/en/.
