Welding stainless steel has its challenges and differences. Though not as difficult to weld as some metals, stainless steel has specific properties that vary from other more common steels that should be addressed before welding.
Stainless steel is a nonferrous metal alloy of iron, carbon, and a minimum of 10.5% chromium. It’s known for its strength and corrosion resistance. The many different grades of stainless steel are determined by the degree and combination of other elements mixed with the iron, carbon, and chromium such as nickel, niobium, molybdenum, and titanium. The addition of chromium to the alloy–which is resistant to rust and tarnishing—also gives the metal its familiar shine.
Stainless steel is a nonferrous metal alloy of iron, carbon, and a minimum of 10.5% chromium. It’s known for its strength and corrosion resistance. The many different grades of stainless steel are determined by the degree and combination of other elements mixed with the iron, carbon, and chromium such as nickel, niobium, molybdenum, and titanium. The addition of chromium to the alloy–which is resistant to rust and tarnishing—also gives the metal its familiar shine.