Stainless Steel in High Temperature Applications

Commonly stainless steel is used for its high temperature properties. Applications where high temperature oxidation resistance is necessary, stainless steel is usually required. Resistance to oxidation, or scaling, is dependent on the chromium content. The high chromium content which is beneficial to the wet corrosion resistance in stainless steel is also extremely beneficial to their high temperature strength, and resistance to scaling at elevated temperatures. Most austenitic steel, with chromium contents of at least 18% can be used at temperatures up to 870°C. Grades 310, 309, and 2111HTR can be used at temperatures even higher. Martensitic and ferritic steel, have lower resistance to oxidation and are less useful at such operating temperatures. An exception to this is ferritic grade 446, which has approximately 24% chromium, and can be used to resist scaling at temperatures up to 1100°C. It is important to note that these temperatures depend very much on the actual environmental conditions, and in some instances temperatures even lower will result in destructive scaling. Choosing the right stainless steel is imperative. Please contact LizHeng to receive a quote on our high quality stainless steel products.