Duplex Stainless Steels

Duplex Stainless Steels

Duplex Stainless Steels are categorised by containing 20% or more chromium content. Duplex Stainless Steels are renowned for their dual-phase microstructure that combines austenite and ferrite, approximately in equal proportions. This unique structure offers a balanced mix of high strength and exceptional corrosion resistance, making Duplex Stainless Steels ideal for challenging environments. Commonly, these steels are characterized by their resistance to pitting stress, crevice corrosion, and their ability to withstand environments containing chlorides and hydrogen sulphide. They exhibit high mechanical strength and good weldability, serving a wide range of applications across various industries.

Key Features of Duplex Stainless Steels

  • Duplex Structure: A two-phase microstructure of roughly equal amounts of austenite and ferrite, achieving a balance between strength and corrosion resistance.
  • Excellent Corrosion Resistance: Particularly effective in environments containing chloride ions.
  • High Strength: Offers superior strength compared to other steel grades.
  • Resistance to Stress Corrosion Cracking: Withstands corrosive environments while maintaining structural integrity.
  • Excellent Toughness: Maintains robust performance even in low temperatures.

Common Applications of Duplex Stainless Steels

  • Oil and Gas Industry: For components such as valves, pumps, piping, and fittings.
  • Chemical Processing: Used in reactors, heat exchangers, and storage tanks due to its resistance to a wide range of chemicals.
  • Desalination Plants: For pumps, valves, and piping, offering resistance to seawater and brine solutions.
  • Power Generation: In turbine components, heat exchangers, and flue gas desulfurization systems.
  • Marine Industry: For shipbuilding, offshore platforms, and seawater handling equipment.
  • Pulp and Paper Industry: In pumps, valves, and piping systems exposed to corrosive chemicals.
  • Food Processing: For tanks, mixers, conveyors where corrosion resistance and cleanliness are critical.