Stainless steel is an alloy of iron with at least 10.5% chromium, which forms a passive oxide layer that prevents rust. The stainless pipe market includes pipes made from various stainless grades, with different alloying elements for specific properties. The stainless pipe market for "chromium" provides corrosion resistance. The stainless pipe market for "nickel" stabilizes the austenitic structure (for formability). The stainless pipe market for "molybdenum" (in 316) improves resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, especially in chloride environments (seawater, de-icing salts).

The broader stainless steel welded pipe market is the product. The stainless pipe market for "austenitic" grades (304, 316) are the most common, offering excellent corrosion resistance and formability. The stainless pipe market for "ferritic" grades (409, 430) have lower nickel content, lower cost, but lower corrosion resistance and are magnetic. The stainless pipe market for "martensitic" grades (410, 420) are hardenable by heat treatment, but less corrosion resistant.

The stainless pipe market for "duplex" grades (2205, 2507) have a mixed austenitic-ferritic structure, offering higher strength and excellent corrosion resistance. The stainless pipe market for "duplex" is used in oil and gas, chemical, and marine applications. The stainless pipe market for "superaustenitic" grades (6% Mo, e.g., 254 SMO) offer very high corrosion resistance.

The stainless pipe market for "pipe" dimensions are specified by nominal pipe size (NPS) and schedule. The stainless pipe market for "tube" dimensions are specified by outside diameter (OD) and wall thickness. The stainless pipe market for "metric" sizes are common outside North America.

The stainless pipe market for "cutting" to length and "threading" (for threaded connections) are done in the factory.

Looking ahead, the stainless pipe market will see the increased use of "lean duplex" grades (e.g., 2101) as a cost-effective alternative to 316. The stainless pipe market for "nickel-saving" grades (e.g., 201) are used in some applications. As nickel prices fluctuate, the stainless pipe market will adapt.

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