13Cr Martensitic Stainless (var. 16)

13Cr martensitic stainless steel (variant 16) is a chromium-hardened iron-based alloy with elevated carbon and molybdenum content, designed for applications requiring high hardness and wear resistance combined with corrosion protection. This material is commonly employed in demanding industrial components where both mechanical strength and resistance to corrosive environments are critical, such as valve bodies, pump shafts, and cutlery applications. Engineers select this variant over softer stainless grades when wear resistance and hardness are primary concerns, and over non-stainless tool steels when corrosion or saltwater exposure is a risk factor.