All "Metal Materials" articles

Is Stainless Magnetic? | Your Guide to Understanding Stainless Steel

Is stainless magnetic? It can be, but it depends on the type. In this article, you’ll learn why some stainless steels are magnetic and others aren’t, and how this affects their uses. Key Takeaways Stainless steel’s magnetic properties are influenced by its crystal structure and chemical composition, with martensitic and ferritic types being magnetic, while austenitic types are typically non-magnetic. Understanding the magnetic characteristics of different stainless steel types—like austenitic, ferritic, martensitic, and duplex—is crucial for selecting the right material for specific applications such as manufacturing and food processing. Testing for magnetism using a simple magnet can indicate magnetic properties, but comprehensive material composition testing is recommended for accurate assessments to ensure proper material selection. What Determines Stainless Steel Magnetic Properties? The magnetic behavior of stainless steel is largely determined by its crystal structure and the elements it comprises. In order to possess magnetism, stainless steel must have iron in…

Brass vs Stainless Steel Fittings: Which is Best for Your Project?

Wondering whether brass vs stainless steel fittings are best for your project? This article breaks down durability, corrosion resistance, cost, and application suitability to help you decide. Key Takeaways Brass fittings are cost-effective and provide decent corrosion resistance, but they can suffer from dezincification in aggressive environments. Stainless steel fittings offer superior corrosion resistance and durability, making them suitable for high-pressure and extreme temperature applications, despite their higher initial cost. The choice between brass and stainless steel fittings should be based on factors such as budget, application environment, temperature tolerance, and pressure requirements. Understanding Brass Fittings Many homeowners favor brass fittings for their residential plumbing needs because of the impressive balance between strength and user-friendliness they provide. This metal alloy, predominantly made up of copper and zinc, is especially suited to various applications owing to its robustness yet pliability. In the realm of plumbing fixtures, brass stands out for offering…

Choosing the Best Metal: Brass vs Bronze Explained