Stainless steel is a preferred material in many applications because of its corrosion resistance. The alloy of 13-8 stainless steel, in particular, has some attributes that make it very useful. Among those properties is its extreme workability, which allows it to be prepared in a variety of ways. The 13-8 alloy ends up used in a variety of ways in a few different industries that take advantage of its properties and strengths.
What Makes Steel Stainless?
Stainless steel is more resistant to corrosion, rust and water stain than regular steel. There are a few different alloys of stainless steel, but to be called stainless, they must contain at least 10.5 percent chromium by mass. The chromium and other elements react with oxygen to form a thin film that protects the alloy from corrosion.
Properties of 13-8 Stainless
One stainless steel alloy known as 13-8 stainless has some properties that are attractive to a variety of industries. It is composed of aluminum, carbon, chromium, iron, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, nitrogen, phosphorous, silicon and sulfur. It is very tough, with strong resistance to cracking, both general and stress cracking, and high transverse strength. It has a density of .279 pounds per cubic inch, electrical resistance of 613 Ohm-circ mil/ft and a melting point between 2,560 and 2,680 degrees Fahrenheit.
Working with 13-8 Stainless
The alloy of 13-8 stainless steel is very workable. It can be machined in all conditions, although it should be machined at lower speeds for optimum finish. It can be formed using traditional methods and it can be welded using both resistance and inert gas methods, although that is best done in its annealed state. It can be heat treated in a variety of ways and forged or hot worked, as long as it is prepared properly. The alloy can also be cold-worked, in spite of its high yield strength.
Uses for 13-8 Stainless
The aerospace industry uses 13-8 stainless steel to make a variety of components, including landing gear, valves and structural sections. The nuclear and petrochemical industries use the alloy to make components for their machinery and pipes, as well. This alloy of stainless is also used extensively to make injection molding equipment.
If you’re interested in 13-8 stainless or other alloys, Aerotech Alloys can answer all of your questions and supply you with the products you need. Visit Aerotechalloys.com to learn more about the company and what products are available.
