Chapter 6: Corrosion of Martensitic Stainless Steel Weldments

Martensitic stainless steels are essentially iron-chromium-carbon alloys that possess a body-centered tetragonal crystal structure (martensitic) in the hardened condition. Martensitic stainless steels are similar to plain carbon or low-alloy steels that are austenitized, hardened by quenching, and then tempered for increased ductility and toughness. This chapter provides a basic understanding of grade designations, properties, corrosion resistance, and general welding considerations of martensitic stainless steels. It also discusses the causes for hydrogen-induced cracking in martensitic stainless steels and describes sulfide stress corrosion resistance of type 410 weldments.