Published
Jan 17, 2025 7:00 AM CET
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One grade – two conditions

Alleima®HighN50 bar is an advanced austenitic stainless steel (XM-19/UNS S20910) known for its exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and non-magnetic properties. Although the material has been in the market for years, Alleima has focused on refining and securing a dedicated product line for the future and are now launching two distinct conditions: Alleima®HighN50-A (annealed) and Alleima®HighN50-HS (high-strength). These two solutions expand application possibilities to meet industry demands for materials that perform reliably under harsh environments.

Unique strength and corrosion resistance

Alleima®HighN50 is distinctive within austenitic stainless steels due to its high mechanical strength and enhanced corrosion resistance, exceeding standard austenitic materials like 304/316. Its yield/proof strength is two to four times greater than standard austenitic grades, according to our own research. Its yield/proof strength is two to four times greater than standard austenitic grades, and its pitting resistance equivalent (PRE) value is similar to duplex 2205, providing superior corrosion resistance.

This combination of strength and corrosion resistance is not found in any other
standard austenitic material grades, like the 300 series stainless steels.

Optimizing production for high-quality output

To ensure consistent quality, Alleima has standardized the -A and -HS versions of HighN50 bars. This involved a comprehensive review of production processes, fine-tuning process parameters, and confirming mechanical properties across various dimensions. The result is a reliable supply of high-quality bars, ideal for environments where mechanical and chemical performance are critical.

I believe the best approach is to thoroughly understand our products and to communicate clearly about what we can offer our customers

Magnus Brink, Technical Marketing Specialist

The complexity of the market

Alleima®HighN50 is a complex material to produce and market due to its varied manufacturing processes and mechanical properties, which differ significantly across producers. While ASTM A-479 defines three basic conditions (annealed, hot-rolled, and strain-hardened), variations in production—such as rolling, forging, hot working, cold drawing, and more—can lead to inconsistencies in what is meant by the term “hot-rolled.” Non-standard terminologies, like "high strength (HS)" and "super high strength (SHS)," further complicate the market, as these are not universally defined and often lead to misunderstandings.

I see a big potential for this new steel grade. Feedback from industry events confirms how much our customers value being part of Alleima developments. Our strong reputation grows as we engage with them directly—through conferences, site visits, and sharing our latest innovations.

Volker Haupt, Sales Manager Long Products, Germany

Simplifying the customer experience

Understanding the challenges distributors and customers are facing, are of high importance. To assist, Alleima focuses on defining mechanical properties, and making strength requirements the priority in material selection. This customer-centric approach enables clear communication, reducing confusion and fostering trust.

Alleima®HighN50 is a unique opportunity to deepen our partnerships, showing our customers that we’re constantly advancing, whether through new grades or improvements to existing ones.

Volker Haupt, Sales Manager Long Products, Germany

Precision in process control

The specialized manufacturing process behind Alleima®HighN50 bars is key to its exceptional performance characteristics. In the -HS condition, mechanical properties such as yield strength, hardness, impact toughness, and microstructure can vary with bar dimensions.

“By adjusting different states, the material can be customized for specific applications. This is possible through careful process optimization and material development at Alleima." says Robin Thun Salguero, Research & Development engineer at Alleima. “Each stage demands precise temperature control to achieve an optimal balance of strength and hardness.”

Despite the detailed focus on process control, product testing ultimately validates quality. Testing for Alleima®HighN50 bars goes beyond ASTM A-479 standards, including Charpy-V impact strength testing at cryogenic temperatures, ensuring that each bar meets stringent performance criteria before reaching the market.

Applications

Alleima®HighN50 bars are well-suited for demanding applications across various industries, including:

  • Marine pumps, valves
  • Fasteners
  • Valves and fittings
  • Hydrogen equipment
  • Oil & Gas downhole / sour service
  • Process industry equipment
  • Pulp and paper industry

With applications that bridge standard austenitic and duplex grades, Alleima®HighN50 is ideally positioned for industries requiring both strength and corrosion resistance, as well as for sustainable energy sectors.

A collaborative approach

While Alleima® is introducing HighN50 to the market, the focus remains on collaboration with trusted distributors and direct engagement with end-users. By maintaining transparency and involving customers in development, Alleima strengthens relationships and supports customers in achieving the best results with Alleima®HighN50.

Since we won’t be stocking HighN50 right away, we’ve chosen to introduce it by partnering with our trusted distributors and end-users who can commit to production orders. This approach allows us to communicate openly, fulfill our promises, and protect our valuable relationships.

Volker Haupt, Sales Manager Long Products, Germany

Sustainability

Alleima® HighN50 aligns with sustainability goals and the growing hydrogen industry, given its high corrosion resistance and mechanical strength. Alleima® HighN50 fills a niche between standard austenitic and duplex steels, making it a suitable choice for both traditional and emerging industries.

“Our Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for all bar products is part of the value we offer. By including the carbon footprint in our product certificates, we give engineers, purchasers, and sustainability-focused customers the data they need to make informed decisions.” Volker Haupt, Sales Manager Long Products, Germany

We are ready

Through commitment to process excellence and customer collaboration, Alleima is poised to meet the growing market demand for high-performance materials that provide durable and sustainable solutions.

“I’m confident that we are well-prepared to support our customers. We have a deep understanding of our products and capabilities, with clearly defined availability and diameter ranges, and competitive lead times. With a strong global and local support team, we’re ready to handle all customer inquiries with speed and dedication and are fully committed to addressing our customers’ challenges. We’re equipped and ready to take the next step forward.” Stefan Bengtsson, Product Specialist Bar Products

For more info and details, please reach out to your local sales contact.