These include maintaining uniform facing thickness and ensuring proper adhesion between facing and substrate. A new stainless formula aims to sidestep these difficulties by offering an alternative to expensive wear-resistant materials. Results of an initial test program determined that silicon was a catalyst for galling resistance, while nickel and manganese were not. In addition, too much silicon decreases nitrogen solubility. To maintain strength, higher amounts of costly nickel would need to be added.
Researchers can now define optimum composition limits for a gall-resistant stainless steel.
To prove the new steel's validity, properties such as galling, wear, and corrosion are evaluated and compared with commercially available stainless steels. Results show the galling threshold for gall-resistant stainless is over 15 times higher than that of conventional stainless steels. Yet, the new formula sacrifices only a slight amount of corrosion resistance. The new alloy also shows a uniquely high ultimate tensile strength, possibly due to martensite formation during tensile testing. Ductility for all four alloys is excellent.