There are some type of stainless steel that are more general in their use and application, while others are more specialized and used less often. 405 stainless steel falls into the latter category, although it is a very practical material used in fabrication and other industrial applications.
Properties
All types of alloys that are called stainless steel contain chromium at a percentage of 10.5 or above. 405 stainless steel contains a higher percentage of chromium, approximately 12%, which gives this metal unique properties that make it a good choice in many applications.
Ferritic Stainless Steel
Stainless steel – Grade 405 is classified as a ferritic stainless steel. It is considered to have a good resistance to oxidation as well as all types of corrosion. It is also magnetic, which is different than the stainless steels in the 300 grades which are typically non-magnetic in nature and only slightly magnetic if cold worked.
Heat and Cold
405 stainless steel does not become hardened by heat or heat treatments. Unlike the 300 stainless steels they are only slightly or moderately hardened if cold worked. 405 is particularly important as it can quickly be cooled from very high heats to cool temperatures without any risk of hardening.
If the steel is used in very high temperatures for prolonged periods of time it can develop some embrittlement. The embrittlement, which can lead to a decrease in durability at lower temperatures, can be corrected with specific heat treatment and allowing the metal to air cool.
Uses of 405 Stainless Steel
405 stainless is considered to have an excellent weldability. It is also comparable to 410 stainless in corrosion resistance and durability, making it a good option for many applications that require durability and low corrosion combined with more workable properties.
Some common uses of 405 stainless steel include the manufacturing of steam nozzles, annealing boxes and for quenching racks. Any items that cannot go through the annealing process after welding are also excellent candidates for the use of this alloy.
405 stainless steel is considered very easy to work with and, with both durability as well as resistance to corrosion, it is an excellent alloy in many different applications and in a variety of different industries. It can stand heat and cold within the recommended ranges without any breakdown or loss of structural integrity.
