History of stainless steel

Stainless steel
A history of resilience and innovation

In the world of industrial materials, stainless steel - or inox - occupies a prominent place. This versatile material, composed mainly of iron, chromium and nickel, is essential to many of the world's industries. Among its most notable applications are stainless steel tanks, which are crucial to the production of everything from food to chemicals. This article delves into the fascinating history of stainless steel and its fundamental role in the manufacture of stainless steel tanks. Discover how this material has become indispensable to modern society.

The beginnings of stainless steel

The history of stainless steel dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, ushering in an era of crucial discoveries in metallurgy and materials science. This metallic material was developed thanks to the ingenuity of Harry Brearley, a British metallurgist, in 1913. At the time, Brearley was looking for a corrosion-resistant material for rifle barrels, which had to withstand hostile, damp environments.

The invention of stainless steel

Stainless steel was born out of this quest for corrosion resistance. The decisive moment came when Brearley discovered that by adding chromium to the iron alloy, he could create a rust- and corrosion-resistant material. This discovery transformed the industry, giving rise to stainless steel, a material that would revolutionise many industries.

The role of chromium

Chromium is the key element that gives stainless steel its exceptional resistance to corrosion. The higher the chromium content in the alloy, the more resistant the steel is to oxidation and corrosive elements.

Progress in Europe

While Harry Brearley was conducting his research in England, European scientists, particularly in Germany, were carrying out similar work to develop a corrosion-resistant material for industrial use. This period of intense research helped to perfect the properties of stainless steel, extending its use to a wide range of sectors.

Evolution of stainless steel

Stainless steel, often referred to as inox, has undergone a remarkable evolution since its beginnings. Over the decades, this alloy has undergone countless improvements, transforming itself into one of the most versatile and durable materials of our time. This article traces the key stages in its development, highlighting the different variations of stainless steel and their applications.

Austenitic stainless steel: redefining corrosion resistance

Austenitic stainless steel was first used in industry in the 1920s. This variant is characterised by a high nickel content, which gives it excellent corrosion resistance. This exceptional quality quickly won over many sectors, including the chemical and food industries, where corrosion resistance is essential to maintaining high safety standards.

Austenitic stainless steel, like 304 and 316 stainless steel alloys, has continued to evolve over the decades. Stronger alloys have been developed, making this material even more durable. Today, it remains an essential choice in industries such as aerospace, where its light weight and resistance to extreme stress are crucial.

• Chemical composition
  Austenitic steels are mainly composed of chromium (18-20%), nickel (8-10%) and iron, with traces of manganese and molybdenum.
• Corrosion resistance
  Excellent resistance, particularly in corrosive environments such as marine and chemical environments.
• Features
  Non-magnetic, easy to weld and resistant to high temperatures. 316 is even more resistant to corrosion than 304 thanks to its molybdenum content.

Martensitic stainless steel: hardness for precision

The 1930s saw the introduction of martensitic stainless steel, renowned for its exceptional hardness. This type of steel has found its way into areas such as knife making and surgical instruments, where its ability to maintain a durable cutting edge is paramount.

Martensitic stainless steel, such as 410 stainless steel, has also benefited from significant progress. More precise heat treatments have improved its hardness, making this alloy an essential material in the manufacture of high-precision cutting tools.

• Chemical composition
  Chromium (12-14%), iron, and a higher carbon content, with little or no nickel.
• Corrosion resistance
  Less resistant than austenitic materials, they are mainly used in applications where the strength of austenitic materials is required.
• Features
  Magnetic, hard and heat-treatable for high mechanical strength. Ideal for knives and mechanical components.

Ferritic stainless steel: magnetism in favour of technology

Also appearing in the 1930s, ferritic stainless steel is renowned for its magnetic properties. It is often used in applications where magnetisation is required, such as in electronic equipment and magnets. This unique characteristic makes it a popular option in industry.

Ferritic stainless steel, like 430 stainless steel, has found its place in an increasingly wide range of applications. Thanks to specific alloys, it is now used in the design of essential electronic components, playing a key role in our increasingly connected world.

• Chemical composition
  Mainly chromium (16-18%) and iron, with little or no nickel.
• Corrosion resistance
  Less resistant than austenitic materials, suitable for less aggressive environments.
• Features
  Magnetic, easy to machine and heat-resistant at moderate temperatures. Used in kitchen utensils and various industrial components.

Duplex stainless steel: the fusion of strength

The 1970s saw the emergence of duplex stainless steel, an innovation that transformed the industry. This variant combines the properties of austenitic and ferritic stainless steels, offering increased resistance to corrosion. This unique combination makes it ideal for demanding environments such as the oil and gas industry.

Duplex stainless steel remains the benchmark for corrosion resistance. The marine and offshore sectors are adopting it to guarantee the longevity of their equipment in hostile environments. In addition, its use in sustainable infrastructures is growing in popularity, demonstrating its versatility and reliability.

Stainless steel tanks: the backbone of the industry

Modern industry relies on a solid infrastructure and advanced technology to guarantee the quality and purity of its products. At the heart of this infrastructure are stainless steel tanks. But these metal tanks are much more than just containers: they embody metallurgical perfection and play an indispensable role in key sectors such as the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries. In this article, we find out how stainless steel tanks, true metallic masterpieces, form the backbone of many industries.

Tough as nails

Stainless steel tanks are engineering feats made of stainless steel, a material carefully selected for its exceptional resistance to corrosion. Thanks to this property, stainless steel tanks are perfectly designed to resist chemical attack, guaranteeing the purity of the liquids they contain. Whether in food, chemical or pharmaceutical production, stainless steel tanks ensure optimum product integrity, with no deterioration due to undesirable chemical reactions.

Versatility in industry

Stainless steel tanks stand out for their versatility. Their modular design makes them adaptable to a variety of applications. In the food sector, they are used to store milk, wine and other sensitive food products. In the chemical industry, they are becoming indispensable for mixing and storing corrosive chemicals. In the pharmaceutical industry, they ensure unrivalled purity of medicines and biological products.

Easy to maintain

In addition to their durability, stainless steel tanks are also remarkably easy to maintain. Their smooth, corrosion-resistant surface makes them easy to clean and disinfect, which is essential in industries such as food and pharmaceutical production, where hygiene is an absolute priority. As a result, stainless steel tanks offer peace of mind by keeping products pure and free from contaminants.

Protection against chemical aggressors

The resistance of stainless steel tanks doesn't stop there. They can withstand aggressive acids, corrosive bases, extreme thermal shock and rust. These qualities make them the ideal choice for the storage and production of sensitive chemical and pharmaceutical products. In short, stainless steel tanks act as unshakeable guardians of purity, ensuring the safety of the products they contain.

Ecological sustainability

The use of stainless steel tanks is also environmentally friendly. Unlike some plastic materials, stainless steel tanks are recyclable and can be reused many times. This helps to reduce plastic waste and promote environmental sustainability. What's more, their long life reduces the need for frequent replacement, minimising industrial waste.

In short, stainless steel tanks are much more than just metal containers. They symbolise metallurgical excellence, combining corrosion resistance with exceptional versatility. Their durability and robustness make them an essential choice for the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries. What's more, because they can be recycled, they make an active contribution to protecting the environment. Investing in stainless steel tanks means choosing quality, durability and industrial excellence.

→ Read the article on the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel

Contact a specialist to find out how stainless steel tanks can transform your production. The experts are ready to answer all your questions and help you choose the ideal stainless steel tanks for your industrial needs.