APPLICATIONS OF DUPLEX STAINLESS STEEL

TITAN gained its reputation in the precision welding of complex and difficult to handle Corrosion Resistant Alloys. Very often the welding characteristics of Duplex Stainless Steel can be just as problematic. While welding Duplex Stainless Steel may seem routine, difficulties often result if the weld does not have the proper austenitic/ferrite mixture to yield correct strength, toughness and corrosion resistance.

Duplex can be difficult to weld properly. The balance of
properties is the key.

Duplex Stainless Steels have a microstructure that contains both ferrite and austenite. When Duplex Stainless Steel is melted, it solidifies from the liquid phase to a completely ferritic structure. As the material cools, approximately half of it changes to an austenitic structure. The result is an alloy with a microstructure of roughly 50% austenite and 50% ferrite. Duplex alloys have higher strength and better stress corrosion cracking resistance than most austenitic alloys and greater toughness than ferritic alloys, especially at low temperatures.

TITAN has the experience and knowledge to make sure it is correct. Our proven track record with the reactive metals makes us the best choice for all your duplex stainless steel requirements.

The lower nickel and molybdenum content of the duplex stainless steels as compared to the austenitic grades with similar corrosion resistance, gives the duplex grades a lower cost per pound. The duplex grades are also about twice as strong, resulting in material savings because of wall thickness requirements. This means less metal at a lower cost per pound.

Cost Benefits of Duplex May Make It a Good Choice for Your Project.

When considering Duplex for Heat Exchangers, often there is even more benefit: The lower nickel content of the duplex grades means a better thermal conductivity as compared to the austenitic equivalent grade. Less heat transfer surface area is required to perform the same duty. Welding the duplex stainless steels seems easy if the only criteria is passing ASME code, but consideration of the all-important weld mixture and correct handling are needed to insure successful corrosion resistance.

Duplex Stainless Steel may be a good material selection for your project. We invite you to call TITAN to discuss your application and we can quickly see if you should consider Duplex. When it comes to the fabrication of Duplex and Super Duplex Stainless Steel, TITAN has the experience and knowledge to make sure it is engineered, built and inspected to the highest standards. You’ll find more information about Duplex Stainless Steel including common grades and their applications in the Technical Resources Section on this site.