Special Ferritic Steels
X6CrMoNb17-1 – 1.4526
X6CrMoNb17-1 – 1.4526 stainless steel is a ferritic stainless steel grade distinguished by its enhanced corrosion resistance, thermal stability, and improved mechanical properties. Compared to conventional ferritic steels, its advanced alloy composition enables more reliable performance under demanding service conditions. The addition of molybdenum (Mo) and niobium (Nb) significantly enhances both its chemical resistance and structural stability.
The chemical composition typically includes approximately 16–18% chromium, along with controlled additions of molybdenum and niobium. Chromium forms a protective oxide layer on the surface, providing resistance against corrosion. Molybdenum improves resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, particularly in chloride-containing environments, while niobium stabilizes the structure by binding with carbon, preventing intergranular corrosion and improving performance at elevated temperatures. This makes the material especially suitable for welded and heat-exposed applications.
One of the key advantages of X6CrMoNb17-1 stainless steel is its ability to maintain performance at elevated temperatures, combined with good oxidation resistance. Its ferritic structure provides a low coefficient of thermal expansion, reducing the risk of deformation under temperature fluctuations. This makes it particularly suitable for heat-resistant systems and components.
In terms of mechanical properties, this steel offers moderate strength and sufficient ductility. It also provides good formability, especially in sheet form, allowing easy processing through bending and shaping operations. Its weldability is excellent among ferritic steels, thanks to niobium stabilization.
The corrosion resistance is well-suited for humid environments, water exposure, and mildly aggressive chemical conditions. However, for highly aggressive environments, higher alloyed stainless steels may be required.
Overall, X6CrMoNb17-1 – 1.4526 stainless steel offers a balanced combination of durability, corrosion resistance, and high-temperature performance, making it a reliable material for modern engineering applications.
Main Application Areas
- Automotive exhaust and emission systems
- Heat-exposed industrial equipment
- Heat exchangers and piping systems
- Solar energy and hot water systems
- White goods and kitchen equipment
- Sheet, pipe, and profile production
- Light exterior cladding systems
- Chemical and process equipment
- Welded metal constructions
Thanks to these properties, X6CrMoNb17-1 – 1.4526 stainless steel is widely preferred as a reliable engineering material, particularly in applications requiring corrosion resistance and thermal stability.
General Identity
X6CrMoNb17-1 – 1.4526
| Grade |
X6CrMoNb17-1 |
| Number |
1.4526 |
| Classification |
Ferritic Stainless Steel – Special Grade |
Standards
X6CrMoNb17-1 – 1.4526
| Standard 1 |
EN 10088-2: 2005 |
| Standard 2 |
EN 10088-3: 2005 |
| Standard 3 |
EN 10028-7: 2007 |
| Standard 4 |
EN 10296-2: 2005 |
| Standard 5 |
EN 10088-1: 2005 |
| Standard 5 |
EN 10088-4: 2009 |
Chemical Composition
X6CrMoNb17-1 – 1.4526
| C |
max 0.080 |
| Si |
max 1.00 |
| Mn |
max 1.00 |
| P |
max 0.040 |
| S |
max 0.015 |
| Cr |
16 – 18 |
| Mo |
0.8 – 1.4 |
| N |
max 0.040 |
| Nb |
max 0.1 – 1 |
Mechanical Properties
X6CrMoNb17-1 – 1.4526
| Rm – Tensile strength (MPa) (+A) |
480 – 680 |
| Rp0.2 0.2% proof strength (MPa) (+A) |
280 – 300 |
| A – Min. elongation at fracture (%) (+A) |
15 – 25 |
| Brinell hardness (HB): (+A) |
200 |
