While we are all extremely familiar with many of the everyday applications of stainless steel, such as cutlery and kitchen appliances, not everyone is aware that stainless steel alloys are in fact a common fixture in nearly every industry. Because of the unique properties of certain types of steel, which is made up of carbon-reinforced iron, it is especially useful in heavy industries, such as the energy industry. While stainless steel’s use in every day applications such as cutlery, medical devices, and automobiles has been well documented, heavy industry is also an area that has been transformed by the proliferation of this revolutionary metal. When we’re talking about heavy industry, we’re referring to any sector that relies on large equipment, facilities, and complexes. Traditionally, this has included large-scale construction, steelmaking, mining, shipbuilding, and aircraft manufacturing. It also involves energy production and refining, as with oil and gas, hydroelectric, and nuclear power, along with long distance energy transmission. When it comes to applications in the energy industry, one of the primary concerns is corrosion resistance. This is because materials are frequently (and sometimes constantly) exposed to high temperatures, harsh environments, and radiation. Oxidation resistance becomes a critical concern, as the lifetime for energy generation facilities, which represent huge investments for the owners, are expected to exceed fifty or more years in many cases.
