Stainless
steel is not a single alloy, but rather the name applies to a group
of iron-based alloys containing a minimum of 10.5% chromium. Other
elements are added and the chromium content increased to improve the
corrosion resistance and heat-resisting properties, enhance
mechanical properties, and / or improve fabricating characteristics.
There are over 50 stainless-steel grades that were originally
recognized by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI.) Three
general classifications are used to identify stainless steel. Among
alloy types, “304” is the basic chromium-nickel
austenitic stainless steel and has been found suitable for a wide
range of applications. It is the most readily available in a variety
of product forms. This grade is easy to form and fabricate with
excellent resistance to corrosion.
