What are different varieties of Stainless Steel?

There are over 100 different grades of Stainless Steel which are usually sub-classified into separate metallurgical families such as the austenitic, ferritic, martensitic , duplex and precipitation hardening.

Austenitic Stainless Steel: This is also referred as the 300 series or 18/8 Stainless Steel. It is most commonly used steel type. It has a composition of 16% chromium, 0.15% carbon, nitrogen, nickel, and manganese. It is non-magnetic, ductile and highly resistant to rust and corrosion. This Stainless Steel type is used for making pumps. Martensitic Stainless Steel: It is known as the 400 series. This type of steel contains a higher proportion of carbon (nearly 1%) and 18% chromium. It also contains traces of nickel and molybdenum. It possesses magnetic properties and can be hardened by heating. This Stainless Steel type is non-corrosive but has less durability than austenitic steel. It is used in making molds, surgical instruments and stainless cutlery. Ferritic Stainless Steel: This particular type is known as the 400 series. It contains 10.5% carbon and up to 27% chromium. It cannot be hardened by heating. It is less ductile, durable and has poor strength. Ferritic steel demonstrates magnetic properties. Ferritic steel is highly resistant to corrosion. It is used in making washing machines and boilers. Duplex Stainless Steel: This Stainless Steel is a mixture of austenitic and ferritic steel in a 50:50 proportion. Duplex steel contains a higher percentage of chromium and a lower quantity of nickel. It is very tough and resistant to corrosive stress. It shows some magnetic properties. Precipitation Hardening Stainless Steel: Initially this type of steel is austenitic. It hardens at a relatively lower temperature. Certain other elements are added to make it tougher. It can be easily transformed into different shapes by heating. It is highly corrosion resistant similar to austenitic steel and is used in making aircraft components, shafts and pumps. It is non magnetic in nature.