Stainless Steel in the Aerospace Industry

It is noteworthy that the probability of fatality in a bicycle-related accident is approximately 50 times higher than that of a plane crash. Even more, the likelihood of drowning is surprisingly 189 times greater than that of an aviation accident. These statistics can be attributed, in part, to the stringent regulations governing the manufacture and usage of aircraft.

The aerospace industry places a premium on quality components and materials to ensure safety and optimal performance, and stainless steel plays a significant role in achieving these goals. There is no disputing the fact that this metal is tough and can withstand harsh conditions. As such, this guide explores the application of stainless steel in the aerospace sector and highlights its advantages.

Introduction to Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is an alloy that is characterized by its high tensile and yield strength, outstanding resistance to corrosion, good ductility, and thermal resistance. These qualities are useful in the aerospace industry, as materials and components made from this metal can withstand extreme temperatures, radiation, and stress.

The corrosion resistance of stainless steel is due to the presence of chromium, which reacts with oxygen in the air to form a thin, passive layer on the surface of the metal. This layer is highly stable and shields the underlying metal from further corrosion. The chromium content of stainless steel is typically at least 10.5%, but higher levels can be added to enhance its corrosion resistance.

Apart from chromium, other metals like nickel and molybdenum can be added to stainless steel to further improve its properties. For instance, nickel is known to increase the tensile strength and ductility of stainless steel and enhances its resistance to high temperatures, while molybdenum improves its resistance to corrosion in acidic environments.

Furthermore, the incorporation of these alloying elements allows for the development of various grades of stainless steel, each with its own unique characteristics and applications. Austenitic stainless steel, for example, is a type of stainless steel that contains high levels of nickel and is highly resistant to corrosion, making it perfect for use in harsh environments like the aerospace industry. On the other hand, ferritic stainless steel is a less expensive option that is more suitable for less demanding applications.

Stainless Steel Vs Aluminum in Aerospace Application

Stainless steel is a highly durable metal that exhibits exceptional resistance to corrosion, rendering it a prime candidate for use in various aircraft components such as frameworks, landing gear, and engines. Additionally, its outstanding heat resistance makes it a suitable choice for applications requiring elevated thermal tolerance. However, compared to other metals, stainless steel is relatively heavy, thereby contributing to an increase in the aircraft’s weight and a decrease in its fuel efficiency.

Aluminum, on the other hand, is a lightweight metal with a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it a great choice for a variety of aviation applications such as structures, skins, and fasteners. It has excellent corrosion resistance and thermal conductivity, allowing heat to be dissipated from aircraft components. It is not, however, as strong as stainless steel and may be more prone to fatigue and splitting under stress.

In conclusion, the choice of either stainless steel or aluminum for aerospace applications depends on the specific requirements of the said application. Several factors, such as weight, strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion and heat, should be considered when selecting the right material for a particular component or structure. In some cases, a combination of both materials may be used to enhance performance and reduce weight.

Advantages of Stainless Steel in the Aerospace Industry

The capacity of stainless steel to withstand a wide range of climatic conditions accounts for its extensive applications in the aviation sector. As a result, employing this material might provide the following advantages:

Reliability

Stainless steel exhibits exceptional resistance to corrosion, rendering it a dependable option for deployment in the demanding environments encountered in aerospace applications. The material’s superior resistance to corrosion effectively mitigates the potential for material degradation, thereby minimizing the risk of failures and associated setbacks. Moreover, the high resistance of stainless steel to wear and tear confers superior durability and longevity to aerospace components fabricated from this alloy.

Weight Reduction

Although stainless steel is a relatively heavy material, it can still be used to reduce weight in aerospace applications. This is because stainless steel has a high strength-to-weight ratio, which means that it can provide a lot of strength and durability without adding too much weight. In addition, stainless steel can often be used in thinner gauges than other materials, further reducing weight.

Durability and Longevity

There is nothing quite as devastating as a failure in the aerospace industry. Unfortunately, however, components built with less durable materials are often prone to premature failures. Not only can this translate into costly repairs and breakdowns, but it can also jeopardize the safety of aircraft. This is one of the primary reasons why manufacturers of aviation-related products often prefer to use stainless steel.

Applications of Stainless Steel

Aerospace-grade stainless steel can outperform other metals in certain applications, such as:

Landing Gear Components

Landing gear components need to withstand high-impact loads and stresses during take-off, landing, and taxiing. Stainless steel’s high strength-to-weight ratio makes it an ideal material for these applications, as it can handle heavy loads without adding unnecessary weight to the aircraft. Additionally, the metal’s resistance to corrosion ensures that the landing gear components will remain durable and reliable over time, even in harsh environmental conditions.

Engine and Exhaust Components

These components are exposed to high temperatures and extreme pressure, which can cause the degradation and failure of other materials over time. However, stainless steel has excellent heat resistance and durability, which makes it an ideal choice for these critical components.

Key Superstructure Joints

Superstructure joints are critical components that connect different parts of the aircraft’s structure, providing the necessary strength and stability to withstand the forces experienced during flight. Stainless steels high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and durability make it an ideal material for these applications.

The use of this metal in superstructure joints can also help to reduce the weight of the aircraft while maintaining the required strength and integrity, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and reduced operating costs.

Cost of Stainless Steel  

The cost of stainless steel in the United States is determined by factors such as steel type, quantity, and current market conditions. Due to its unique qualities, it is often more expensive than most metals. On average, it is priced at $4.28 per kilogram.

Conclusion

Stainless steel has enjoyed enormous popularity in the aerospace industry over the years due to its outstanding resistance to corrosion, ease of fabrication, and high strength-to-weight ratio. It is also one of the most versatile metals available, which makes it an ideal choice for a variety of applications. While some materials are better suited for specific applications than stainless steel, this metal still makes a good option for many products and components, particularly those that require enhanced strength and durability.

Contact your local stainless steel supplier in California.