Guide to Martensitic Stainless Steel

As we know, stainless steel can be divided into martensitic stainless steel, ferritic stainless steel, austenitic stainless steel, ferritic-austenitic duplex stainless steel, and precipitation-hardening stainless steel.

Now let’s talk about martensitic stainless steel.

Basic information

• Chemical element content: 12-14% Chromium (Cr), with 0.08 to 0.15% Carbon (C).
• Basic Type: 410 (1 .4006) Hardenable by heat treatment.
• Magnetic: Yes.
• Weldability: poor
• Mainly a bar specification, also some strip and plate Moderate corrosion resistance.
• Not used at low temperatures.

Frequently asked questions

Are martensitic stainless steels magnetic?

Yes. Martensitic stainless steels are magnetic. Actually, except for austenitic steels that have not been supercooled, all types of stainless steel are magnetic.

Does martensitic stainless steel rust?

No. As a type of stainless steel, martensitic stainless steel products are rust-proof. However, from the standpoint of rust resistance, austenitic stainless steel (like AISI304, AISI316, etc.) is superior to martensitic stainless steel.

How is martensitic stainless steel made?

The general production process of martensitic stainless steel: stainless steel containing austenitic phase region is formed by heat treatment (quenching, tempering) process to form martensitic stainless steel. The hardness of the stainless steel is enhanced during this process.

What is martensitic stainless steel used for?

Martensitic stainless steels, depending on their carbon content can be seen as

• corrosion-resistant engineering steels used in a variety of mechanical engineering applications:
  • pumps,
  • valves,
  • boat shafts, etc.
• wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant applications:
  • cutlery,
  • medical tools (scalpels, razors, and internal clamps),
  • bearings (ball bearings),
  • razor blades,
  • injection molds for polymers,
  • brake disks for bikes & motorbikes.

References: Wikipedia – Martensitic stainless steel

What is martensitic stainless steel best known for?

AISI410

What properties does martensitic stainless steel have?

The performance characteristics of martensitic stainless steel are high hardness, high strength and high wear resistance. Suitable for making knives, parts, components, and tools.