Alloying Element

Composition & Alloying

Определение

A chemical element intentionally added to a base metal to alter its mechanical, physical, or chemical properties. Common alloying elements include chromium, nickel, manganese, and molybdenum.

Подробное объяснение

Chromium added to steel at levels above 10.5 wt% creates a passive oxide layer that imparts corrosion resistance, forming stainless steel. Nickel stabilizes the austenite phase and improves low-temperature toughness, while molybdenum enhances pitting resistance and high-temperature strength. The effects of alloying elements are cumulative and can interact, requiring careful compositional design.