In this article we would like to explain everything you need to know about duplex steels. They are a group of metals whose composition makes them suitable for particularly demanding applications. At the same time, duplex steel is one of the most sought-after steel types and a firm part of our range.
If you need a particularly robust stainless steel for your project, you can order it directly from us and have it produced to your specifications. Later in this article, we will reveal how that works.
What is duplex steel and what makes it so special?
Duplex steel is characterised by a two-phase microstructure of austenite and ferrite. This achieves both high strength values and high toughness at room temperature. When using duplex steels, you benefit from the properties of chromium steels as well as those of chromium-nickel steels, because both sets of properties are present in one alloy.
Duplex stainless steel is generally divided into two groups:
- Standard duplex: the most widespread form of duplex steels, characterised by a chromium content of more than 20%, while nickel accounts for around 5% and molybdenum for 3%.
- Super duplex: these steel types have higher shares of chromium, nickel and molybdenum and are developed for particularly demanding applications.
What is duplex steel used for?
In principle, duplex steel is used wherever corrosion-resistant materials with high strength are required. Duplex stainless steel is used in the construction industry worldwide, fulfilling important structural functions in buildings. Parts made of duplex steel are also frequently used in shipbuilding.
In the food industry and the chemical sector, duplex steel is indispensable due to its corrosion resistance and easy cleaning. Not only transport containers but entire production plants are made from duplex steels, ensuring a long service life.
Advantages of duplex steel
Its uses follow from its advantages over other metals and steel types. First, of course, its corrosion resistance must be highlighted, covering pitting and crevice corrosion as well as stress corrosion cracking.
Further outstanding features of duplex steel are its higher strength and better formability compared with other chromium and chromium-nickel steels. Good weldability means that even large workpieces can be made from duplex stainless steel. Its low thermal expansion is an advantage in all environments with elevated temperatures.
Types and alloys of duplex steel
Here we would like to introduce you to some steel types from the duplex group - stainless grades you can also order from us to your specifications.
Stainless steel 1.4462
This is a standard duplex steel used for apparatus and vessels in industry. Due to its corrosion resistance, stainless steel 1.4462 is important above all in petroleum refining.
As stainless steel 1.4462 is also resistant to seawater, it is used in shipbuilding and in the construction of offshore installations. Processing stainless steel 1.4462 is a challenge: its forging and heat treatment characteristics are rated as medium, while machining and welding are relatively difficult with this alloy.
Stainless steel 1.4410
This stainless grade belongs to the super duplex steels. It is a chromium-nickel-molybdenum alloy with a high chromium content, which makes stainless steel 1.4410 not only particularly resistant to corrosion but also gives it a high yield strength and high overall strength.
As permanent contact with seawater cannot harm stainless steel 1.4410 either, it is predominantly used for building ships and offshore wind turbines. This is also because its weldability is good and its mechanical properties are rated as excellent.
Sources of supply for duplex steels
It would not surprise us if the robustness of these steel types has won you over and you now want to use duplex steel for your project too. Unfortunately, it must be said that this is a very specialised material that is not available everywhere. Unlike most other building materials, you will not find duplex steel sheets in DIY stores or builders' merchants.
Your only chance of finding a local dealer is metalworking companies. However, they will probably not all stock duplex steel, nor will they be eager to accept a small-volume order from a private individual. So please do not be disappointed if your project does not progress as quickly as you had hoped. If you have no time for lengthy research into a suitable duplex steel supplier, you are of course welcome to turn to us.
Why ESC Burg is the best partner for unusual material requests
Some years ago we specialised in processing stainless steel sheet and offer a range of services. As it was important to us to meet all our customers' wishes, we automated our production processes as far as possible. This allows us to handle orders from private individuals quickly and efficiently as well.
You will not get off-the-shelf products from us: all our products are made to order. Thanks to our efficient workflows, it usually takes no more than 48 hours for an order to be dispatched. With us as a reliable partner, the time factor plays almost no role any more.
Advice first, order second
Since our roots do not lie in online retail, we have kept something from the "old days". We are aware that we sell specialised products, which is why we do not want to do without advising our customers. But don't worry - you need not fear lengthy consultations with us. We merely want to make sure you receive the right sheet for your needs.
Feel free to call our sales team without any obligation. With a few targeted questions, our staff can find out whether duplex steel is the right choice for you or whether you should use a different alloy. In this phone call you will also receive our individually calculated quotation. We work without flat rates and will only invoice you for what you commission from us.
This also applies to shipping, because only in this way can we guarantee that your product arrives quickly and securely packaged. If you need duplex steel in a particular shape, give us a call. We look forward to helping you too and to sending you a sheet made to your specifications within a few days.
+49 3921 72-0