Stainless steel: the main characteristics sought
The choice of a stainless steel family must imperatively take into account the environmental conditions. Therefore, the main characteristics sought are resistance to wet corrosion and resistance to dry corrosion.
In a humid environment, the less resistant metals dissolve. But to afford this protection, stainless steel must contain more than 10.5% chromium. Alternatively, one can also use a protective film called a passive film to create a protective barrier.
But IS 1239 pipe is only effective when placed under specific conditions. For example, in an aqueous medium, the strength of the film is reinforced by increasing the level of chromium, molybdenum and tungsten. However, this increase occurs only in specific cases.
As for dry corrosion, it corresponds to a degradation of stainless steel by oxidation, nitriding or carburizing. Stainless steels have good resistance to creep, oxidation and high temperatures (above 550 ° C).
Malleable
Thanks to the different forming processes, certain SS 304 Seamless Tubes can be worked into various shapes. This is the case with stainless steel, an alloy of iron and carbon which also contains more than 10.5% chromium. In addition to being mouldable as desired, a stainless steel sheet can be treated in different ways to obtain many finishes: shiny, matt, polished, engraved, coloured. The malleability and the aesthetic side of stainless steel certainly explain why this metal is widely used in the construction industry and especially in interior decoration. In addition, it is also found in the medical field.
Corrosion-resistant
The composition of 316 Stainless Steel Seamless Tube does not allow it to resist corrosion. Different processes have, therefore, been put in place to treat it in order to improve its resistance. Hence hot-dip galvanizing: a method of treating steel so that it does not rust. As for stainless steel, its composition rich in chromium makes it more resistant to corrosion.
Sustainable
If steel is so popular in the construction industry, it is because it is durable. The steel is solid, and it resists shocks, mechanical attacks and UV rays. Whatever type of steel is used, and whatever the size of the construction to be made, you can therefore be sure that the steel will last over time.
By comparing API 5L Seamless Pipe and galvanized steel, you can already see that the former is more durable since it is more resistant to corrosion. Indeed, galvanized steel has a limited life until the zinc layer covering it is consumed.
How to choose stainless steel?
As mentioned above, the resistance to wet and dry corrosion is the most desirable characteristic. But you must also take into account other important aspects such as:
- Mechanical characteristics;
- The safety factor of use;
- The surface condition;
- The thickness of the steel;
The suitability of steel for welding
Is metal ductile, magnetic? Can you soak it without risk of degrading it? Is it suitable for welding or machining? These are all characteristics that must be taken into account. If you want to install investment goods with an unlimited lifespan, you must necessarily consider the safety factor of use. The condition of the stainless steel surface is also a criterion that should not be overlooked. There are several types of appearance: polished, brushed, annealed, pickled skin past or non-skin past, coloured, matt or shiny.
