How is nickel essential for stainless steel

 

Over a century has passed since stainless steel first appeared on the market. The steels are different from conventional steel in that, unlike traditional steel, they are resistant to corrosion and don't rust when exposed to water alone. While steel is 'stainless' due to its chromium, stainless steel plumbing fittings is so flexible due to its nickel addition.

Additionally, stainless steels containing nickel remain ductile at extremely low temperatures but can operate at high temperatures. Nickel-containing SS plumbing pipe have excellent formability and weldability. The nonmagnetic material is also different from conventional steels and non-nickel stainless steels. Because of their versatility, they can be used in a wide range of applications, including those for the chemical industry, healthcare, and domestic use. The nickel content in stainless steel water pipe is so crucial that it accounts for 75% of the total production. There are two types best known for their nickel content: Type 304, which has 8%, and Type 316, which has 11%.

Steel crystal structure changes from a martensitic to an austenitic (face-centered cubic crystal structure) structure when nickel is added. The ambient temperature ferritic steel has a cubic body and crystal structure. These unique properties are imparted by an adequate amount of nickel - typically 8-10%.

Compared with other alloys, austenitic nickel-containing alloys have excellent all-round properties. These materials are widely available and widely understood due to their properties, applications, and ease of use. Additionally, they are extremely durable and extensively recycled after their useful life has ended. These materials often provide the best practical, low-risk material choice, so they find applications across a wide range of fields.