Did you know that in order to produce special alloy steel, carbon steel is combined with one or several other alloying elements, such as manganese, nickel, chromium, aluminium, silicon, copper and titanium?

The properties of special alloy steel

These other metals are added to create specific properties that cannot be found in regular steel. Special alloy steel has several different unique aspects, as a result of the other metals, such as increased hardness, higher resistance to corrosion, increased strength and durability, improved ductility, etc. By varying the proportions of the other metals, once can even change the weldability of the steel. (Information source: https://www.eurosteel.co.za/special-alloy/)

The types and applications of special alloy steel

As mentioned above, if one were to adjust the proportions of the other alloying elements added to the carbon steel, the properties of the special alloy steel could change, even its alloy levels. As special alloy steel is categorised by its alloy percentage, the two types of alloy steel are namely high-alloy and low-alloy steel.

1. High-Alloy Steel

High-alloy steels are created by combining high proportions of alloying elements and are defined by their high alloy percentage. The most common high-alloy steel is stainless steel, which contains at least 12% chromium. This high-alloy steel can be further categorised into the following groups:

• Ferritic: These types of stainless steels are magnetic, high in chromium steels with a low carbon content. This steel is a popular choice in the automobile and industrial equipment industry, due to its high ductility levels, corrosion resistance and cracking resistance.

• Austenitic: These types of stainless steels, however, while also high in chromium with a low carbon content, are non-magnetic steels. Due to their corrosion resistance, formability and ability to store corrosive liquids, this grade of stainless steel is the most widely used, especially in the chemical, pharmacy and mining industries.

• Martensitic: Among the three types of stainless steel, Martensitic contains the lowest levels of chromium. Due to its durability, corrosion resistance and hardenability, this grade of stainless steel is typically used to produce cutlery.

2. Low-Alloy Steel

Low-alloy steels, on the other hand, contain a far lower percentage of alloying elements. The alloy used will determine the strength of the special alloy steel, as well as what the steel will be used for.

There are several applications of special alloy steel, ranging from application in artworks to producing manufacturing units. Stainless steel tends to have a naturally aesthetic appearance, making them ideal for use in artwork and in the production of household items, such as kitchen appliances and wardrobe fixtures. Finally, stainless steel has been used in both the construction and manufacturing industry for several years now, due to their durability and corrosion resistant qualities.

As the years have passed, stainless steel has remained one of the most sought after materials as a result of its several beneficial properties. Not only is it one of the most environmentally friendly materials, but it’s hygienic qualities are also unmatchable. If you require special alloy steel for any project or manufacturing process, contact one of the several suppliers in South Africa today!