Chromium in Metallic Materials
Chromium is a chemical element with symbol Cr and atomic number 24. It is the first element in group 6. It is a steely-grey, lustrous, hard and brittle transition metal. Chromium is used in alloy steels for corrosion resistance and for the production of stainless steels. It is used in automobile trim and wheels, kitchen fixtures and appliances, and to plate other metals for protection against corrosion.
Chromium is also added to structural alloys based chiefly on nickel and iron, such as Inconel and Hastelloy. Inconel is a nickel-chromium-iron alloy designed for high temperature applications and is highly resistant to oxidation and corrosion. Hastelloy is an alloy of nickel and chromium with high oxidation and corrosion resistance. Both alloys are used in the aerospace industry to manufacture aircraft engines and other components.
Chromium is also used to improve the properties of other metals such as aluminum and magnesium, used in aerospace and automotive applications. Aluminum alloy 2024, for example, is used in the manufacture of aircraft structural components and is strengthened by the addition of small quantities of chromium, as well as copper, manganese and zinc. Aluminum coil stock with a chromium finish is also popular for outdoor building products.
The addition of chromium to bronze increases the corrosion resistance of the alloy and is known as gun-metal. This alloy is resistant to corrosion from seawater and other forms of corrosion, making it an excellent choice for the manufacture of ship anchors and propellers.
Chromium-plated steel is used for the manufacturing of springs, battery lids and car dashboards due to its ability to resist corrosion. This alloy is also used for industrial components that require a high level of wear and abrasion resistance.
Chromium is also used in specialty alloys, such as superalloys, which are used in high temperature applications. Superalloys are made up of iron, nickel, chromium and various other metals. They are used to manufacture components found in turbine engines and other power generation equipment.
Chromium is an essential trace element, and it has a variety of uses. It is used to make stainless steel and other alloys stronger and more resistant to corrosion and wear. Chromium-plated steel is used in many industrial and automotive applications due to its corrosion and wear resistance. Chromium is also used in bronze alloys for marine applications, and in specialty superalloys for high temperature applications.
