The important role of nickel in stainless steel

one of the most common applications of nickel is to join as a major ingredient in the production of stainless steel, especially austenitic stainless steels. like chromium, nickel plays an important role and is an indispensable element of the outstanding features of stainless steel that we know today.

nickel helps create a glossy, smooth surface for stainless steel. the mechanical and physical properties of steel are more stable and durable over the time thanks to the presence of nickel. in addition, it is also a factor that enhances the oxidation resistance of steel thanks to its inertness to oxygen. therefore, stainless steel is not easily corroded by its surroundings.

in stainless steel, depending on the grade of steel, the percentage of nickel may vary. the higher the percentage of nickel, the more its durability is proportional. it can be said that the great properties that stainless steel brings to our lives today cannot be without the great contribution of nickel. nickel plays a very important role in the stainless steel manufacturing industry.

addition of nickel increases the toughness of stainless steel. in general, chromium addition is steel decreases the toughness. so, that decrease in toughness is compensated by addition of nickel. ferromagnetism in steel is not desirable in certain applications. the chromium addition induces ferromagnetism. proper addition of nickel helps in countering such problems.

nickel in stainless steel work as the austenitic stabilizer. nickel addition in steel functions to stabilise tough and ductile, fcc austenitic structure. conventional steel has a body centred cubic crystal known as ferritic structure. roughly 8% nickel can stabilise the austenitic structure at room temperature. this is the reason that most stainless steel grades (example 304 grade) contains 8 percent nickel. in the early twentieth century, this composition (18% chromium and 8% nickel) was one of the first to be developed in the history of stainless steel.

properties of nickel containing stainless steels

nickel containing stainless steels provide various unique properties like

• good weldability

• high toughness

• good formability

• high-temperature properties

• good corrosion resistance

• good surface finish

• sustainability