Cold Working vs. Hot Working of Stainless Steel Pipes

The forming processes of stainless steel pipes include cold working and hot working, both of which significantly affect the material properties.

• Cold Working: Cold working involves shaping the stainless steel at temperatures below its recrystallization point, usually at room temperature. This process increases the hardness and tensile strength of the material but reduces its ductility. Cold working is often used to create thinner-walled pipes or to achieve a specific surface finish. However, cold working can induce residual stresses, so proper heat treatment is often required afterward to relieve these stresses.

• Hot Working: Hot working involves shaping the material at temperatures above its recrystallization point, typically between 950°C and 1300°C. This process allows the material to be easily formed and is often used to manufacture thick-walled pipes. Hot working improves ductility and reduces the chances of cracking. However, it can lead to the oxidation of the surface, which may require further finishing steps.