What Is Stainless Steel Sheet Metal? – Types, Application & Properties

Corrosion Resistance

Stainless steel's chemical composition guards against rust and related issues. There are three primary stainless steel grades: austenitic, ferritic, and duplex. Austenitic is the most prevalent, while the other two are less frequently utilized. Among the three, duplex steel is the most cost-effective and offers remarkable corrosion resistance, making it ideal for structural purposes.

The issue of oxidation is primarily cosmetic in certain cases, with no significant impact on the overall performance of the alloy. Stainless steel sheet metal serves a multitude of purposes, requiring occasional polishing based on the grade and specific application. Its exceptional corrosion resistance renders it suitable for various uses, including water heaters and kitchen appliances. Nevertheless, caution is advised when handling thin sheets of stainless steel.

The alloy used to make stainless steel sheet metal normally has a minimum chromium percentage of 10.5% and is based on iron. Because of the protective coating that chromium forms on the stainless steel's surface, rust and corrosion are prevented. Along with at least 1.2% carbon, stainless steel alloys also incorporate other elements in different ratios. Depending on the specific use case, stainless steel finds application in situations where maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is of utmost importance.

Stainless steel sheet metal undergoes a rolling process to decrease its thickness, while being wound into coils and cut into plates. To enhance its mechanical properties, it can be cold-rolled or heat-treated, providing versatility. Consequently, the value of this metal product increases. However, regulating thickness and maintaining correct heat dispersion are the two main challenges when welding stainless steel sheet metal.