Corrosion Resistance of Low Chromium Ferritic Stainless Steel 0Cr13Al (AISI405)
Introduction
Low chromium ferritic stainless steel 0Cr13Al (AISI405) is a molybdenum-free chrome-iron steel with a content of 13 percent chromium. This type of stainless steel is characterized by good corrosion resistance, excellent formability and good machinability, as well as low cost. Due to its good formability and low cost, 0Cr13Al (AISI405) has become a popular choice for the production of kitchen utensils, white goods and decorative items such as sinks, basins and showers. Its role in this type of application, however, has become somewhat limited due to its lack of resistance to certain types of corrosive environments. In order to preserve the aesthetic appeal of 0Cr13Al (AISI405) in such applications, a number of surface treatments have been developed to protect it from corrosion.
Surface Treatment
One way to improve the corrosion resistance of stainless steel 0Cr13Al (AISI405) is to treat its surface with a corrosion-resistant coating. This is typically done with a layer of zinc or a zinc-rich alloy, which is applied to the steel surface in a process known as hot-dip galvanizing. This zinc coating forms a self-repairing layer that helps to protect the underlying steel from corrosion. The process of hot-dip galvanizing also provides 0Cr13Al (AISI405) with excellent abrasion resistance, which is important in applications such as kitchen utensils, white goods and decorative items.
Another method to improve the corrosion resistance of 0Cr13Al (AISI405) is to coat it with a thicker, more durable coating such as an epoxy or polyurethane. These coatings are more resistant to corrosion, abrasion and mechanical damage than hot-dip galvanizing, and therefore provide greater protection for the underlying steel. However, epoxy and polyurethane coatings are also generally more expensive and require a more complex and costly application process.
Conclusion
Low chromium ferritic stainless steel 0Cr13Al (AISI405) is a versatile and cost-effective material that can be used for many applications, particularly in the production of kitchen utensils, white goods and decorative items. However, due to its low chromium content it has limited corrosion resistance, and therefore requires extra protection through surface treatments such as hot-dip galvanizing and epoxy or polyurethane coatings. These treatments not only increase the corrosion resistance of 0Cr13Al (AISI405), but also improve its abrasion resistance, making it an ideal material for a range of applications.
