Metal annealing is a process not common to all metals. While aluminum alloy, copper and its alloys, nickel, and titanium, as well as titanium alloys, are able to undergo successfully the annealing process, they are not as in common use as stainless steel. Companies opt for annealing stainless steel to fulfill the qualities they require for their applications.
Types of Stainless Steel for Optimal Annealing
Austenitic stainless steels are among the most common type of settle for the annealing process. The 300 series is the most popular type for applying this technique. This is particularly true for 304 stainless steel. 316 and 316L are two other grades in the 300 series capable of undergoing annealing successfully.
Why Annealed Stainless Steel?
The annealing treatment serves diverse purposes. For stainless steel, it is transformational in intent. The results produce a workpiece or component that
- Features reduced hardness
- Presents less stress
- Possesses an explicit microstructure consisting of clear mechanical and physical properties, e.g., ductility and formability and additional corrosion resistance qualities
- Exhibits characteristics of improved machinability
Such qualities are desirable ones. They are what manufacturers specify when considering the process for their applications.
Applications for Annealed Stainless Steel
The request for annealing stainless steel components is requested by many different industries. These range from breweries to mining companies. They require annealed stainless steel components to help ensure the ongoing functionality and durability of various products including
- Boat fittings
- Brewery, dairy and pharmaceutical production machinery systems
- Chemical and petrochemical equipment Food processing equipment
- Chemical transportation containers
- Heat exchangers
- Kitchenware and related household items including cutlery, flatware, saucepans, sinks and splash backs
- Laboratory benches and equipment
- Mining screens
- Nuts, bolts, screws, and springs
- Tubing
Annealing Stainless Steel
Annealing is a common procedure to improve and protect diverse components. Annealing stainless steel enhances the capabilities of this metal. This allows it to meet exacting specifications for many products in industries ranging from beverage and food to marina and mining.
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