Martensitic stainless steel is characterized by the ability to become extremely hard during hardening and tempering treatment (quenching). It offers excellent endurance (fatigue resistance) as well as limited corrosion resistance in non corrosive environments. It is used for cutlery, mechanical components, building tools.
Further details :
This family of martensitic grades is unique because of its combination of good corrosion resistance (the chromium content is between 12 et 14%) and high mechanical properties which result from the way the carbon effects its structure.
Heat treating results in high level of hardness and good mechanical properties. The martensitic structure is achieved through the combined effects of quenching and tempering. A continuous quenching line is required to produce this special condition.