This article describes a laboratory simulation of the Steckel Mill rolling process, based on AISI 430 ferritic stainless steel.

After exhaustive tests, a high-quality rolling oil was formulated using a combination of ester and paraffinic mineral oil. It is observed that this new oil can save 14% of energy consumed by a laboratory mill compared with conventional rolling oils. In production mills, nearly the same energy conservation level can be achieved.

A short summary/illustration of the processes normally used to make stainless steel.

Short explanation through pictures.

These pictures show a manufacturing process. When you click a facility on picture, screen pops up, then you can see an appearance of manufacturing by the animation.

The corrosion resistance of stainless steel is due to a 'passive', chromium-rich complex, oxide film that forms naturally on the surface of the steel. This is the normal condition for stainless steel surfaces and is known as the 'passive state' or 'passive condition'.

Stainless steel can corrode in service if there is contamination of the surface. Both pickling and passivation are chemical treatments applied to the surface of stainless steel to remove contaminants and assist the formation of a continuous chromium-oxide, passive film. Pickling and passivation are both acid treatments and neither will remove grease or oil. If the fabrication is dirty, it may be neccesary to use a detergent or alkaline clean before pickling or passivation.