Stainless Steel for Chemical Processing
Chemical service cannot be selected from a generic corrosion chart alone. Concentration, contaminants, temperature, aeration, velocity and crevices can change performance completely. Final material approval remains with the project engineer.
Corrosion and Failure Mechanisms
- Pitting and crevice corrosion in halide-bearing process streams
- Stress-corrosion cracking under combined chloride, temperature and tensile stress
- General corrosion in reducing acids outside an alloy's useful range
- Preferential attack or phase imbalance after uncontrolled welding
Common Selection Risks
- Selecting from chemical name without concentration, contaminants and temperature
- Using a generic corrosion chart as a design guarantee
- Mixing pipe, fitting, flange and weld-metal grades without one material specification
Recommended Stainless Steel Grades
- 316L Stainless SteelGeneral chemical processing and moderate chloride duty
- 2205 Stainless SteelHigher strength and chloride resistance
- 2507 Stainless SteelHot or concentrated chloride service
- 904L Stainless SteelSelected reducing-acid conditions
- 254 SMO Stainless SteelSevere chloride and flue-gas cleaning duty
Typical Supply Requirements
| Process | Chemical identity, concentration and temperature |
|---|---|
| Design | Pressure, thickness and corrosion allowance |
| Products | Plate, pipe, fittings and flanges as one package |
| Inspection | PMI, NDT and hydrotest as specified |
Related Product Forms
Related Standards
Related Surface Guidance
What to Include in Your RFQ
- Send a process data sheet.
- Identify crevices and stagnant zones.
- State project approvals and inspection plan.
Related Grade Comparisons
Frequently Asked Questions
When should 2205 replace 316L?
Use 2205 when chloride pitting or stress-corrosion cracking threatens 316L and its higher strength adds design value.
Is 904L always better than 2205?
No. 904L suits selected reducing acids; 2205 is stronger and often better in chloride service. Process conditions decide.
Why is PMI important?
Many grades look identical. Positive material identification helps prevent grade mix-ups before fabrication or shipment.
Technical content updated: 2026-07-29
Organizational author: Tsingshan (Shandong) Iron & Steel Co., Ltd..Review method, status and limitations.
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