X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 Duplex 2205 Stainless Steel Properties and Applications
Explore X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 Duplex 2205 stainless steel with high strength corrosion resistance and precise alloy specifications for industrial applications.
What is X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 Duplex 2205
X2CrNiMoN22-5-3, commonly known as Duplex 2205, is a high-performance stainless steel that combines the best features of both austenitic and ferritic stainless steels. This dual-phase structure gives Duplex 2205 a unique balance of strength, corrosion resistance, and durability.
Definition and Classification
Duplex 2205 is classified as an austenitic-ferritic stainless steel, also referred to as duplex stainless steel. It features a microstructure with roughly equal parts of austenite and ferrite, which enhances its mechanical properties and resistance to various forms of corrosion.
Common Designations
You may see Duplex 2205 identified under different industry standards and codes such as:
- UNS S32205
- ASTM A182 F60
- EN 1.4462
These designations refer to the exact chemical composition and mechanical properties that meet international standards for reliability and performance.
Key Characteristics
Duplex 2205 is widely recognized for its:
- High Strength: Roughly twice the strength of conventional austenitic stainless steels like 316L.
- Superior Corrosion Resistance: Excellent resistance to chloride-induced pitting and stress corrosion cracking.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Offers long service life and durability which reduce maintenance and replacement costs.
Comparison with Other Stainless Steels
Compared to popular stainless steels like 316L and UNS S31803, Duplex 2205 offers:
- Higher strength and better corrosion resistance than 316L.
- Improved resistance to stress corrosion cracking over UNS S31803 due to optimized nitrogen content.
- Enhanced performance in harsh environments such as marine, chemical, and offshore applications.
In , X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 Duplex 2205 is a premium stainless steel choice when you need a dependable, strong, and corrosion-resistant material that performs better than many standard steels at a competitive cost.
Chemical Composition and Standards
X2CrNiMoN22-5-3, also known as Duplex 2205, has a carefully balanced chemical makeup that gives it its outstanding strength and corrosion resistance. Typically, it contains:
- Chromium (Cr): 21-23% – boosts corrosion resistance
- Nickel (Ni): 4.5-6.5% – stabilizes the austenitic phase for toughness
- Molybdenum (Mo): 2.5-3.5% – improves pitting and crevice corrosion resistance
- Nitrogen (N): 0.14-0.20% – enhances strength and resistance to stress corrosion cracking
This combination classifies Duplex 2205 as an austenitic-ferritic stainless steel, striking a balance between durability and corrosion resistance.
The material meets several important standards used widely in the U.S. and globally, including:
- ASTM A182 – covers forgings for high-temperature service
- EN 1.4462 (European Standard designation)
- BS 2338 – British Standard for stainless steels
When selecting Duplex 2205, one key factor to consider is the PREN (Pitting Resistance Equivalent Number). PREN is a formula that predicts how well a stainless steel resists chloride-induced pitting corrosion. Duplex 2205 typically has a PREN between 32 and 38, which puts it well above standard 316 or 304 stainless steels, making it a great choice for harsh environments like marine or chemical processing.
Understanding these chemical standards and PREN ratings helps you choose the right alloy for durability and performance in your projects.
Mechanical and Physical Properties of X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 Duplex 2205
Duplex 2205 stands out with impressive mechanical strength and durability. Typically, it has a tensile strength ranging between 75,000 to 95,000 psi and a yield strength about twice that of standard austenitic stainless steels like 316L. This means you get strong, reliable performance even under heavy loads. It also offers good elongation, usually around 25%, which ensures some flexibility before failure.
When it comes to corrosion resistance, Duplex 2205 excels in combating pitting, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking. Thanks to its balanced austenitic-ferritic microstructure and the addition of nitrogen, it’s highly resistant to localized corrosion, especially in chloride-rich environments typical of marine and chemical applications. It also shows strong resistance to fatigue, meaning it can handle repetitive stress well.
Performance-wise, Duplex 2205 remains stable across a wide range of temperatures. It performs reliably in extreme cold and up to about 300°F (150°C) without losing its strength or corrosion resistance. This makes it a solid choice for harsh environments—like offshore oil rigs, chemical plants, and marine settings—where both strength and corrosion resistance matter.
Key Applications of Duplex 2205
Duplex 2205 (X2CrNiMoN22-5-3) shines in industries where strength and corrosion resistance are critical. Here’s where it’s commonly used:
- Oil and GasIt’s a go-to for offshore platforms, underwater pipelines, and subsea equipment, thanks to its ability to handle harsh marine environments and resist corrosion from saltwater and chemicals.
- Chemical ProcessingDuplex 2205 is trusted for making heat exchangers, pressure vessels, and storage tanks because it withstands aggressive chemicals and high temperatures.
- Marine EngineeringFrom shipbuilding to desalination plants and coastal structures, this material resists rust and wear even in salty, humid conditions.
- ConstructionYou’ll find Duplex 2205 in bridges, structural supports, and architectural cladding where durability and long-term performance are priorities.
Case Study: Vast’s Offshore Project Supply
Vast recently supplied Duplex 2205 for a major offshore platform project in the Gulf of Mexico. The steel met strict ASTM A182 F60 standards and handled extreme marine conditions flawlessly, proving its reliability and durability for heavy industrial use.
Benefits of Using X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 in Your Projects
Choosing X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 (Duplex 2205) for your projects brings several clear advantages. First off, its superior corrosion resistance stands out against standard austenitic stainless steels like 304 or 316. This means you get much better protection in harsh environments, especially against pitting and crevice corrosion, which are common concerns in marine, chemical, and offshore settings.
Another big plus is its high strength-to-weight ratio. Duplex 2205 offers nearly double the strength of regular austenitic steels, so you can use less material without sacrificing durability. This often translates into reduced material costs and easier handling during construction or installation.
Versatility is key with Duplex 2205. It’s used across many industries — from oil and gas, chemical processing, and marine engineering to construction and desalination. Its combined toughness and corrosion resistance make it a go-to choice where reliability and longevity are critical.
Finally, sustainability plays a growing role in material selection. Duplex 2205 has a long service life thanks to its resistance to wear and corrosion, which lowers replacement frequency. Plus, it’s fully recyclable, supporting eco-friendly practices without compromising performance.
These benefits make X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 a smart choice if you want a cost-effective, durable, and sustainable stainless steel solution tailored for demanding U.S. industrial applications.
Why Choose Vast as Your Duplex 2205 Supplier
At Vast, we bring years of experience in stainless steel manufacturing and supply, specializing in premium-grade Duplex 2205 like X2CrNiMoN22-5-3. Our expertise ensures you get consistently high-quality materials tailored to your project needs.
We strictly follow ASTM, EN, and ISO standards to guarantee quality and reliability in every batch. Whether you need standard stock, custom forgings, fasteners, or precision components, we offer flexible solutions that fit your specifications.
With a strong global network, Vast delivers promptly and reliably to industrial clients across the U.S. and worldwide. Our commitment to quality and service has earned us trusted partnerships in challenging sectors like oil and gas, chemical processing, and marine engineering.
Here’s what one customer said after working with us on a major offshore project:
“Vast’s Duplex 2205 supply exceeded our expectations. Their support and on-time delivery made a huge difference for our tight schedule and demanding environment.”
Choose Vast for Duplex 2205 stainless steel and experience dependable sourcing with expert support every step of the way.
Comparing Duplex 2205 with Other Alloys

When looking at Duplex 2205 versus UNS S31803, the differences are minor because they are closely related grades. Both have similar chemical compositions with balanced amounts of chromium, nickel, and molybdenum. However, Duplex 2205 (X2CrNiMoN22-5-3) often has slightly higher nitrogen content, which boosts strength and corrosion resistance a bit more compared to UNS S31803.
Comparing Duplex 2205 to 316L, the differences are more noticeable:
- Strength: Duplex 2205 is roughly twice as strong as 316L, allowing for thinner, lighter components.
- Corrosion resistance: Duplex 2205 performs much better in harsh environments, especially against pitting and crevice corrosion, thanks to higher chromium, molybdenum, and nitrogen.
- Cost: 316L is generally cheaper upfront, but Duplex 2205’s longer lifespan and reduced maintenance can lower overall expenses.
When to Choose Duplex 2205
Pick Duplex 2205 if you need:
- Superior corrosion resistance in chloride-rich or aggressive environments.
- Higher strength to reduce material thickness and weight.
- Long-term reliability with less downtime and maintenance.
- Applications in oil and gas, marine, or chemical processing where conditions are tough.
If your project requires only moderate corrosion resistance or a tighter budget, 316L can still be a practical choice. But for demanding jobs, Duplex 2205 gives you extra confidence and durability, making it often the smarter investment.
How to Specify X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 for Your Project

When specifying X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 (Duplex 2205) for your project, there are a few key things engineers and procurement teams should keep in mind:
- Material Selection: Consider the environment where the steel will be used. Duplex 2205 excels in corrosive and harsh conditions, especially in chloride-rich settings like marine or chemical plants.
- Load and Stress Requirements: Check if the project demands high strength and fatigue resistance. Duplex 2205 offers excellent tensile and yield strength, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications.
- Budget: While Duplex 2205 may have a higher upfront cost than 316L or standard austenitic steels, its long-term durability and resistance reduce maintenance and replacement expenses.
- Standards and Compliance: Make sure your specification aligns with ASTM A182, EN 1.4462, or other relevant standards for quality assurance.
At Vast, we’re ready to partner with you on custom specifications tailored to your needs. We offer technical support to help select the right grade, dimensions, and finish — ensuring your project gets the best fit. Collaborating early with us streamlines procurement and guarantees reliable supply of high-quality Duplex 2205 stainless steel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 and UNS S32205
X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 and UNS S32205 are essentially the same duplex stainless steel grade, often used interchangeably. Both offer high strength and excellent corrosion resistance. The main difference lies in naming conventions—X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 is the European EN standard designation (1.4462), while UNS S32205 is the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) system name. So, you get the same material performance no matter which standard you refer to.
Is Duplex 2205 suitable for high-temperature applications
Duplex 2205 handles moderately high temperatures well but isn’t designed for extreme heat over 600°F (315°C) continuously. It performs best in environments up to around 320-350°F (160-175°C) where corrosion resistance is crucial. For higher heat uses, other stainless steels like 310 or 321 might be better. If your project involves occasional temperature spikes, Duplex 2205 still holds up thanks to its balanced microstructure.
How does Vast ensure quality in Duplex 2205 products
At Vast, quality is a top priority. We follow strict ASTM, EN, and ISO standards throughout manufacturing and supply. Our Duplex 2205 products undergo thorough inspections, testing for chemical composition, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance before shipment. We also offer custom solutions and technical support to make sure your project specs are met precisely, giving you peace of mind when sourcing duplex stainless steel.