Nitronic50 (00Cr22Ni13Mn5Mo2N), a nitrogen-strengthened austenitic stainless steel, is developed and manufactured by the AK Steel Corporation of Ohio. This corrosion-resistant material is used both in demanding industrial and consumer applications. Due to its high corrosion resistance, superior creep strength, extended fatigue life, and good ductility, Nitronic50 is the alloy of choice for many industries.
Atomic Composition
Nitronic50 consists of a balanced mix of elements. At room temperature, the alloy is composed of 72.2% iron, 22.0% chromium, 13.0% nickel, 5.0% manganese, and 2.0% nitrogen. It also contains trace amounts of molybdenum, carbon, silicon, and other elements. The nitrogen present in the alloy improves its resistance to both intergranular and pitting corrosion. Molybdenum, on the other hand, boosts the alloys creep strength, making it suitable for use in high-temperature components.
Mechanical Properties
Nitronic50 showcases exceptional tensile strength of 830 MPa and a yield strength of 725 MPa. It also features an elongation rate of approximately 35%, implying its high ductility. In addition, the alloy exhibits a good fatigue strength that is approximately 32% higher compared to the widely used 300 series stainless steels.
Corrosion Property
Nitronic50 not only demonstrates good strength properties but also displays outstanding resistance to corrosion in various media. Even in harsh, corrosive environments like seawater, the alloy offers an optimal degree of corrosion protection. The combination of chromium and nitrogen present in the alloy, referred to as “Passivation Zone,” enables the material to form a protective, thin film over its surface. This film is incredibly effective against oxidation, preventing the accumulation of rust.
Thermal Properties
Nitronic50 performs well in various temperature settings, particularly in elevated-temperature environments. It maintains a higher level of Rockwell hardness even when exposed to temperatures up to 850 °C (1562 °F). The alloy also exhibits impressive oxidation resistance and can be used effectively in high-temperature settings where oxidation protection is essential.
Uses
Due to its excellent combination of properties and outstanding corrosion resistance, Nitronic50 finds its use in multiple applications. The alloy is most commonly utilized in components of engineering, power plants, nuclear industry, and automotive sector. This steel alloy is also employed in making high-performance pump components, strong springs, and forging dies. Additionally, with its high fatigue strength, Nitronic50 can serve as an excellent substitute for other alloys in structural applications where extended fatigue endurance is required.
Conclusion
Nitronic50 is a nitrogen-strengthened austenitic stainless steel with excellent mechanical and corrosion properties. Being composed of iron, chromium, nickel, manganese, molybdenum, carbon, silicon and nitrogen, the alloy is highly resistant to intergranular and pitting corrosion. Nitronic50 also offers superior creep strength and fatigue life compared to other stainless steels, making it the alloy of choice for extreme environments. With its Rockwell hardness, good ductility, and oxidation resistance, Nitronic50 is the ideal material solution for automotive, nuclear, and power plant industries.