Most metals (aluminum, copper, brass, zinc, steel, etc.) oxidize, and in some cases quite easily. Galvanized steel, on the other hand, resists corrosion thanks to a zinc coating (galvanization). We shed some light on these “rust-proof steels”!
Discover the infinite world of stainless steels: a multitude of possibilities to explore...
Here, we are talking about steels that do not rust, more commonly known as “stainless steels” or “stainless steel.”
Stainless steel alloys, also known as stainless steels, offer a good compromise between corrosion resistance and mechanical strength. Their secret lies in the magic ingredient that is chromium, the addition of which transforms steel into a veritable shield against corrosion. In accordance with the rigorous standards of EN 10088-13, a steel is worthy of the designation “stainless” if it contains at least 10.5% chromium by mass and a minimal proportion of carbon, i.e., less than 1.2%. This chromium, hidden within the alloy, becomes an invisible guardian, creating a protective barrier when in contact with air. The history of these revolutionary steels dates back to 1912, when two German researchers unveiled this material that would shape industry and our daily lives. Since then, stainless steels have become the unsung but indispensable heroes of our modern world.
Anti-corrosion, the power of duplex steels
Duplex steels stand out as the undisputed champions of corrosion resistance. These stainless steels, belonging to the austenitic-ferritic steel family, have a unique two-phase structure, combining the strength of ferrite with a generous proportion of 40 to 60% austenite. Their chemical composition is rich in chromium, nickel, and molybdenum, not to mention iron, which is characteristic of all steels. Thanks to the presence of these two microstructural phases, duplex steels are at the top of the strength pyramid, offering unparalleled protection against pitting and stress corrosion cracking, far beyond that of traditional stainless steels.
There are different families of stainless steels, the most common of which are:
- X2CrNi18-09 (AISI 304L or A2): known as “food-grade stainless steel,” used in the manufacture of equipment for public facilities and structures.
- X2CrNiMo17-12 (AISI 316L or A4): known as “surgical stainless steel,” used in the chemical, pharmaceutical, petroleum, and food industries (tanks, etc.) as well as in jewelry.
- X8Cr17 (AISI 430): used for household items, appliances, sinks
- X6CrTi12 (AISI 409): used in automotive exhaust systems, stoves, etc.
There are many advantages to using stainless steel:
Environmentally friendly and infinitely recyclable: stainless steel is an environmentally conscious choice because it can be recycled almost indefinitely, reducing the demand for natural resources.
Hygienic: Its resistance to heat, moisture, and oxidation makes it an ideal material for applications where cleanliness and durability are essential, such as in the food and medical industries.
Antistatic: Stainless steel is antistatic, which means it protects against electrostatic discharge, which is crucial in certain sensitive electronic applications.
Easy to work with: It is also valued for its ease of welding, handling, and processing, making it a versatile material for many industries.
Our steel analysis services
In addition to routine metallurgical analysis, the FILAB laboratory offers its expertise in metallurgical analysis and failure analysis of your stainless steel samples:
Metallographic examination on steel
Analysis of welds on steels
Study of fracture patterns in steels
Aging study (corrosion, surface deterioration, etc.) on steels
Corrosion resistance study on steels
Analysis and characterization of surfaces (roughness, defects, etc.) on steels
Our technical resources for analyzing stainless steels
Thanks to its state-of-the-art analytical equipment, FILAB is able to perform customized analysis for its customers. Our analytical equipment dedicated to stainless steel analysis: ICP-AES and ICP-MS elemental analysis techniques, SEO spark spectrometry, C, H, O, N, S elemental analysis, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM-EDX)
In conclusion
For over 30 years, the FILAB laboratory has been offering its customers metallurgical analysis services for steels, some of which are accredited under COFRAC ISO 17025.
Laboratory specializing in analysis and expertise for industrial companies
