On the one hand, the extraordinary strength and durability of HFX stainless ensures this longevity. On the other hand, the high corrosion resistance, which makes stainless steel rustproof, is the main reason for this.
What makes ROOFINOX HFX stainless so durable?
HFX stainless is rustproof and remains so thanks to a self-healing process, which means that the material remains free from corrosion in the long term. We explain this self-healing effect or self-repair mechanism in more detail in the following section. From our point of view, self-repair is the decisive component for the durability of HFX stainless.
How does the self-repair mechanism work?
HFX stainless owes its corrosion resistance to a chemical reaction on the surface:
The high chromium content in our stainless steel alloy combined with oxygen from air and water form an invisible protective layer, the passive layer, on the surface of HFX stainless.
This passive layer repels corrosive or damaging substances and ensures that HFX stainless is rustproof.
This layer can be removed by mechanical damage (e.g. deep scratches) and the stainless steel would be unprotected.
However, this is not a problem. The passive layer forms anew from the matrix of the stainless steel in a short time. The component is then fully functional again and as good as new.
This is ROOFINOX self-healing! - The recipe for longevity.
If contamination with carbon steel particles causes so-called foreign rust, this can impair self-repair. As soon as the rust-causing particle has been removed and the affected area has been cleaned, the passive layer forms again and protects the HFX stainless steel for generations. (You can use our ROOFINOX SR special cleaner to clean off foreign rust).
Further information
The self-healing effect and corrosion resistance are primarily due to the high chromium content in the alloy. Corrosion resistance can be improved by adding nickel and molybdenum, but also other alloying elements. Today, there are a large number of stainless steel grades that are tailored to specific applications in very specific alloy variants.
The most common alloys for HFX stainless are:
- 1.4301 or V2A or 304
- 1.4404 or V4A or 316L
- 1.4510 or 439
Choosing the right alloy is crucial to ensuring that HFX stainless can show off its strengths everywhere. Whether in the high mountains, on the coast or in the lowlands.
Further information on the production of HFX stainless or its properties can be found here.
If you have any questions, please contact us here.
