Stainless Steels: Nitriding Methods Compared

Stainless steels are sensitive to traditional nitriding methods.

• Salt bath nitriding. While it forms a hard layer, it severely damages the natural passive layer and may form chromium carbides, compromising corrosion resistance.

• Gas nitriding requires strict temperature and atmosphere control. Post-oxidation may be needed but rarely restores full protection.

• Plasma nitriding forms uniform S-phase layer without damaging the passive chromium-oxide layer. Does not require post-oxidation.