What Is Chromium Steel?
Chromium Steel is an alloy steel that includes carbon steel with added chromium, typically ranging from 0.8 to 3%. The addition of chromium forms hard double carbides, significantly increasing wear resistance. Low-carbon chromium steel, with a carbon content between 0.13% and 0.23%, is known for its surface hardenability due to double carbide formation.
However, chromium steel can exhibit temper brittleness, which is mitigated by avoiding prolonged heating or slow cooling around 475°C (475°F).
Uses of Chromium Steel
Chromium steel with up to 2% chromium content is commonly used in machine structural applications, including tools, gears, and bearings. It’s favored for high-grade cutting tools, automotive parts, and ball bearings due to its hardness and hardenability. Additionally, its rust resistance and magnetic properties make it suitable for rust-sensitive applications like sinks. Unlike many stainless steels, chromium steel does not contain nickel.
Types of Chromium Steel
Stainless steel, defined as steel with a chromium content of 10.5% or more, is a type of chromium steel known for its corrosion resistance. There are various types of stainless steel, including those with high chromium or high chromium and nickel content, offering different properties like heat resistance, workability, and resistance to pitting corrosion and stress corrosion cracking.