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Stainless steel fabrication is a great option for durability and product lifespan because of its inherent oxide protective coating. Corrosion, warping, and even metallurgical changes may take place if proper procedures are not followed.
In order to maintain the integrity of the metal and keep the finished product within specifications, metalworkers who are unfamiliar with Martin stainless steel fabrication in Sydney, as well as seasoned welders and fabricators in a rush, must pay special attention to proper working techniques and processes. Learn how to avoid this and other errors during the fabrication process, as well as why adding surface contamination is one of the most dangerous mistakes to make when working with stainless steel.
Alterations in Metallurgy
How it happens:
The Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) while welding or thermally cutting stainless steel is larger because the material has a lower thermal diffusivity (4.2 mm2/s) than other metals. This may lead to a grade change (martensitic, tougher, and more brittle austenitic stainless steel) or weakening of the heated metal.
Cutting alternatives:
In the post of HAZ, experts go over the four cutting techniques and the factors to take into account when employing them while making stainless steel.
Shearing, waterjet cutting, and hand cutting
Since the sheet metal is not overheated, they do not produce a HAZ.
Laser slashing
It has the lowest HAZ of any thermal cutting method since it only heats a relatively small area.
Utilizing plasma to cut
The plasma pulse creates an intermediate HAZ since it is wider than a laser beam. Faster cutting speeds made possible by higher currents shorten exposure times and narrow HAZs.
After welding, perform a high-temperature anneal and quench to reabsorb chromium at grain boundaries and stop the formation of chromium carbide.
Select a low-carbon stainless steel grade to prevent the production of carbides (e.g., 304L or 316L).
An alloy high in chromium (e.g., alloy 310)
Distortion
How it happens:
Stainless steel is susceptible to distortion during welding due to its low heat conductivity and rapid expansion rate.
Welding guidance
Use the smallest amperage that you can without compromising the weld quality.
Temperatures in the interposes are regulated.
Use clamping jigs, a copper backing plate, or controlled tack welding.
Contaminants are introduced to the surface
How it happens:
In addition to other environmental contaminants, iron filings are in touch with stainless steel.
When handling a surface, things like hand grease, chalk, and other objects can contaminate it.
Both of these elements may be responsible for localized rust.
Surface Contamination:
For blending, deburring, and grinding, use stainless steel abrasive.
Separate the abrasive compounds used on stainless steel from those used on other metals. Never use an abrasive that has been used on another metal before.
Separating stainless steel from other metals including carbon steel is a good idea.
To protect stainless steel from the elements, keep it in its container as long as you can.
Since transport adhesives can harden and lead to crevice corrosion on the project site, take them off the stainless steel.
Conclusion:
If you utilize adequate welding and cutting procedures, are aware of the HAZ, and adhere to appropriate quality control and anti-contamination methods, you’ll receive a stainless steel product that is in-spec and well-finished product on the website. Make sure you and your team read this article to prevent common manufacturing mistakes with stainless steel.