Liquid metal embrittlement can occur if 300 Series SS comes in contact with molten _______.
Liquid metal embrittlement can occur if 300 Series SS comes in contact with molten _______.
Liquid metal embrittlement (LME) of 300 Series Stainless Steel typically occurs when it comes into contact with molten mercury. The contact between molten mercury and stainless steel causes a decrease in ductility and tensile strength, leading to embrittlement and increased susceptibility to cracking. Mercury is well-known for causing embrittlement in various metals, including stainless steel.
The embrittler can be external to the metal, such as zinc on the surface of stainless steel, or the embrittler can be internal to the metal, such as the lead in a leaded free-machining steel