Introduction to Stainless Steel

Stainless steel, short for stainless acid-resistant steel, refers to steel alloys that resist corrosion in mild environments (e.g., air, steam, water) or exhibit stainless properties. Steels specifically designed to withstand chemical corrosion (from acids, alkalis, salts, etc.) are termed acid-resistant steels.

Key Differences in Corrosion Resistance

Standard stainless steels typically resist weak corrosive media but may fail in harsh chemical environments.

Acid-resistant steels offer both stainlessness and chemical corrosion resistance.

The term "stainless steel" encompasses over 100 industrial grades, each optimized for specific applications. Selecting the right alloy depends on intended use.

Common Stainless Steel Grades for Construction

Most structural applications use six primary grades, featuring:

17–22% chromium (Cr) for basic corrosion resistance.

Nickel (Ni) in higher-grade variants for enhanced durability.

Molybdenum (Mo) to improve resistance to chloride-rich atmospheres (e.g., coastal or industrial areas).