Stainless steel is an alloy of iron that is resistant to rusting and corrosion. It contains at least 11% chromium and may contain elements such as carbon and other nonmetals to obtain other desired properties. Stainless steel's resistance to corrosion results from the chromium, which can protect the material and self-heal in the presence of oxygen.
The alloy's properties, such as luster and resistance to corrosion, are useful in many applications. Stainless steel can be rolled into sheets, plates, bars, wire, and tubing. These can be used in cookware, cutlery, surgical instruments, major appliances, vehicles, construction material, industrial equipment, in paper mills, chemical plants, water treatment and storage tanks and tankers for chemicals and food productsbut also jewelry.
The biological cleanability of stainless steel is superior to both aluminium and copper, and comparable to glass. Its cleanability, strength, and corrosion resistance have prompted the use of stainless steel in pharmaceutical and food processing plants.
Stainless steels are relatively poor conductors of electricity, with significantly lower electrical conductivities than copper, Which its functionality in applications as electrical connectors. Works great in high temperatures and oxidizing environments.
Stainless steel is a highly durable metal known for its impressive hardness. This quality is primarily due to the presence of two key components: chromium and nickel. Chromium forms an oxide layer on the metal's surface, protecting it from corrosion and wear. Meanwhile, nickel contributes to the metal's strength and ductility, enhancing its overall hardness. Stainless steel can also be hardened through heat treatment processes such as annealing or quenching, further improving its hardness.
Martensitic, duplex and ferritic stainless steels are magnetic, while austenitic stainless steel is usually non-magnetic.
The addition of nitrogen also improves resistance to pitting corrosion and increases mechanical strength. Thus, there are numerous grades of stainless steel with varying chromium and molybdenum contents to suit the environment the alloy must endure.