The steel industry is one of Canada's largest markets. It generates over $11 billion in annual revenue, including $3 billion in exports to other nations.
Duplex stainless steel is one of the most versatile and structurally sound metals. Read on to learn what duplex stainless steel is and what its benefits are.
What Is Duplex Stainless Steel?
A duplex stainless steel gets its name because it has a two-phase microstructure. They contain both austenitic and ferritic steel in about equal measures. Austenitic steel has a crystalline structure, while ferritic steel contains more chromium.
High Toughness
Duplex steel is much sturdier than ferritic steel grades and can withstand a wider range of weather conditions, including marine and coastal applications. It can also hold more equipment, vehicles, or workers at a construction or manufacturing site.
Its high strength and corrosion resistance can contribute to a safer environment in facilities where it is used.
Corrosion Resistance
In addition to material strength, duplex steel is extremely corrosion-resistant.
Many alloys have increased levels of chromium and nitrogen, which stops duplex stainless steel from succumbing to chloride pitting and crevice corrosion. This keeps the material strong even in work environments with high chemical and oil exposure, such as offshore drilling sites.
It also withstands extreme weather conditions when utilized in architecture or construction. Rain, hail, and heavy winds pose no threat to duplex stainless steel structures.
Affordability
Duplex steel is stronger than ferritic steel because of its austenitic steel content. However, you may be wondering why you shouldn't simply invest in 100% austenitic steel.
The answer is its price. Duplex options are way more affordable since combining the less-expensive ferritic steel with austenitic alternatives lowers the price. It's also made with lower amounts of molybdenum and nickel than normal austenitic metals, which lowers its price as well.
Lightweight Materials
Because duplex stainless steel is stronger than ferritic steel, you can use thinner sections of it without sacrificing strength. This makes the material easier to handle and install.
Multiple Uses for Duplex Stainless Steel
Duplex stainless steel combines elements from austenitic and ferritic stainless steels, resulting in a material that is stronger and more corrosion-resistant than either of its components alone. This combination makes duplex stainless steel suitable for many industries, including:
Construction and architecture
Naval applications
Aerospace
Automotive
Offshore drilling
Water treatment
Get Stainless Steel Fabrications in Edmonton and Calgary
Now that you know the benefits of duplex stainless steel. Our team at Terrick Enterprises Ltd is committed to working with clients in various industries, including construction, oil, agriculture, and manufacturing. Terrick Enterprises Ltd has been serving Edmonton, Calgary, Cold lake and Saskatoon for many years.
Our CWB-certified team welds and fabricates a wide range of products while catering to projects of all sizes. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals.