Still, compared to carbon steel, both straight chromium and chromium-nickel grades share high electrical resistance and low thermal conductivity.Īs some fabricators seek to expand their capabilities, taking on stainless steel welding projects can help increase their competitiveness. Straight chromium grades also have a lower melting point than carbon steel but a higher melting point than chromium-nickel stainless. Compared to chromium-nickel stainless, straight chromium stainless grades and carbon steel have similarly low coefficients of linear expansion, which determines how materials expand and contract under temperature and pressure. Its many benefits are now lending themselves to the wave of craft breweries cropping up across the U.S., and the material is becoming increasingly prominent in the rail and trucking industries for tankers designed to transport corrosive chemicals.Ĭommon stainless steels come in chromium-nickel (austenitic, or 300 series) or straight chromium (martensitic and ferritic, or 400 series) grades. Stainless also has a low susceptibility to bacterial growth on its surface, making it well-suited for food-preparation and medical equipment. Stainless steel resists corrosion and maintains strength at extremely hot and cold service temperatures, hence its popularity in the piping and petrochemical industries. To determine the best option, fabricators need to consider the upfront cost and characteristics of the filler metal, required productivity, equipment complexity, and operator skill set. There is a give-and-take with every option, and no single process provides a perfect solution. Stainless steel can be three to five times more expensive than mild steel any welding mistake can compound the overall costs for rework.Ĭhoosing the right welding process is key. Compared to mild steel, however, the material poses some welding challenges, especially for less experienced welders. Stainless steel continues to gain popularity in applications across the fabrication industry, mainly thanks to its corrosion resistance, strength, and toughness. While there is no such thing as the perfect welding process for stainless steel, keeping some key considerations in mind when selecting the process and filler metal can help ensure success and cost savings.
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