Chromium is the primary alloying element of martensitic steels such as 1.4057 stainless steel, imparting moderate corrosion resistance to a material with inherently high hardness and strength. In the unquenched and un-tempered condition, martensitic grades are brittle and unsuitable for engineering applications. Typically, nickel concentrations of 2 – 2.5% are added as a stabilizing element to ensure a martensitic steel retains its toughness properties through heat treatment, enabling the fabrication of numerous component types. Medical tools and mechanical components are among the most common devices constructed from martensitic steels.
ASTM 431, or 1.4057 stainless steel, is the comprehensive martensite grade for engineering applications. The exact composition varies, but an exemplary 1.4057 stainless steel will comprise: 15 – 17% chromium; 2 – 2.5% Nickel; 0.12 – 0.22% Carbon. It may also comprise small volumes of molybdenum, silicon, and phosphorous.
Mechanical Properties of 1.4057 Stainless Steel
1.4057 stainless steel boasts an exceptional blend of wear- and corrosion-resistance, impact toughness, and high strength. The exact ultimate tensile strength (UTS) values of the material vary, but you can typically expect billets of 1.4057 stainless steel to display a UTS upwards of 800MPa. This property can be finely-tuned through specific heat treatment to acquire a unique balance of mechanical to chemical characteristics. 1.4057 stainless steel is broadly resistant to oxidizing acids and corrosion from salt water, suiting it for complex engineering projects in marine applications.
Applications of 1.4057 Stainless Steel
The chemical-mechanical resistance and high-strength properties of 1.4057 stainless steel make it suitable for a broad range of engineering applications. It is routinely used in shipbuilding and construction and is widely used to fabricate drive and propeller shafts, bearings, pump and valve parts, piston rods, fittings, nuts and bolts, and many more.
1.4057 Stainless Steel from Masteel
Masteel is a global steel supplier operating through a reliable network of manufacturers in Europe and around the world. We recently acquired stocks of 1.4057 stainless steel, which is suitable for machining and welding in an extensive range of engineering and construction sectors.
Learn more about the Stainless Steel Families available from Masteel. Or, if you would like to place an order of 1.4057 stainless steel, simply contact us directly.