MATERIAL KNOWLEDGE / SOCKET WELD FITTINGS
Stainless steels are iron-based alloys whose chromium-rich surface film provides corrosion resistance. The exact grade determines how they perform in a particular environment.
MATERIAL EXPLORER / SS
Explore three views of the material. These diagrams explain relationships; they do not represent a measured microstructure or predict performance.
Surface film
A chromium-rich passive film helps protect stainless steel. The alloy and service environment affect that protection; corrosion resistance does not mean immunity to corrosion.
The exact material and its condition remain part of the complete technical description.
Structures
Stainless steel describes more than one kind of steel. Its chromium-rich passive surface film is the common basis of corrosion resistance, while its internal structure separates austenitic, ferritic, martensitic and duplex families. Those differences help explain why two stainless materials can have different mechanical and fabrication behaviour.
The exact material and its condition remain part of the complete technical description.
Environment
Review the fluid composition, concentration, temperature and contaminants. Chlorides and crevices can be important to corrosion behaviour.
The exact material and its condition remain part of the complete technical description.
01 / MATERIAL OVERVIEW
Stainless steel forms a thin passive surface film that helps protect the underlying metal. That protection depends on the alloy and the service environment; stainless steel is not immune to corrosion.
Austenitic, ferritic, martensitic and duplex stainless steels have different structures and properties. The family name alone does not define strength, weldability or resistance to a particular process fluid.
General background for the explanation above. The project specification governs the actual selection.
02 / MATERIAL KNOWLEDGE
Stainless steel describes more than one kind of steel. Its chromium-rich passive surface film is the common basis of corrosion resistance, while its internal structure separates austenitic, ferritic, martensitic and duplex families. Those differences help explain why two stainless materials can have different mechanical and fabrication behaviour.
Duplex is a type of stainless steel with both austenite and ferrite in its structure. The broader stainless-steel label also includes families with other structures.
Explore the related materialYes. The passive film helps protect the metal, but its protection depends on the alloy and the environment. Stainless steel is corrosion resistant; it is not immune to corrosion.
No. Austenitic, ferritic, martensitic and duplex stainless steels are distinct metallurgical families. Their structures contribute to differences in properties and fabrication behaviour.
03 / SELECTION CONSIDERATIONS
Review the fluid composition, concentration, temperature and contaminants. Chlorides and crevices can be important to corrosion behaviour.
Specify the exact grade and governing material requirements. Avoid treating all stainless steels as equivalent.
Include the project requirements for welding, surface condition and documentation.
04 / FROM MATERIAL TO FITTING
Stainless steels are considered in process equipment and piping where corrosion resistance is important. Selection is made for the particular fluid and operating conditions.
Material-family information is a starting point. Confirm the exact grade and application requirements with the project engineering team.
THERE IS MORE TO EXPLORE
Change a configuration. Compare a material. Understand a reference.
