12Cr Ferritic Stainless Steel: A Cost-Effective Alternative To Carbon Steel In Several Pulp And Paper Mill Environments, 2004 11th International Symposium on Corrosion in the Pulp and Paper Industry
Steel alloyed with more than 11% chromium provided the first non-rusting, “stainless” steel. Because of its
ability to form a durable passive film, inherent resistance to chloride stress corrosion cracking, and significantly
lower strength-based cost than basic 300 series stainless steels, utility grade, 12Cr ferritic stainless steel was
evaluated for its suitability in alkaline and neutral service environments in pulp and paper mills, where corrosion
of carbon steel causes continuous maintenance cost. This paper compares the mechanical properties and
corrosion behavior of 3CR12, a weldable, 12Cr stainless steel that meets European standard 1.4003 and
conforms to ASTM A240-UNS-S41003, with those of carbon steel and 304L austenitic stainless steel. Welding
and other practical considerations also are discussed.