What is SAF2205?

(More commonly known as: Duplex 2205 / 2205 Stainless Steel / UNS S31803 or UNS S32205)

SAF 2205 is the Sandvik Materials Technology tradename for their 22% chromium duplex stainless steel. It is more widely known by its Unified Numbering System (UNS) designation S32205, and is also referenced in international standards as DIN 1.4462 and ASTM A182 F60.

The term SAF stands for Sandvik Austenitic Ferritic, reflecting the duplex structure of the alloy that contains roughly equal proportions of austenite and ferrite. The 2205 designation corresponds to the UNS grade S32205, which represents an improved development of the earlier S31803 duplex stainless steel, with more tightly controlled composition to provide greater corrosion resistance.

Chemical Composition
Typical composition includes:

• 22% Chromium
• 5–6% Nickel
• % Molybdenum
• 0.15–0.20% Nitrogen

Balance iron with controlled levels of manganese, silicon, and trace elements

This composition provides a strong combination of mechanical strength and resistance to localised corrosion.

Key Properties of SAF 2205 (S32205)

• High strength, approximately double that of 316L austenitic stainless steel
• Excellent resistance to chloride stress corrosion cracking
• Very good pitting and crevice corrosion resistance due to chromium, molybdenum, and nitrogen content
• Good weldability with proper procedures
• Improved fatigue strength compared to austenitic stainless steels

Applications
SAF 2205 is widely used in industries requiring strength and corrosion resistance, including:

• Oil and gas production: piping, risers, subsea equipment
• Chemical and petrochemical processing
• Pulp and paper bleaching equipment
• Marine and offshore structural components, fasteners, and shafts
• Desalination and water treatment plants

Comparison with Other Duplex Grades

• Versus S31803: SAF 2205 offers enhanced corrosion resistance due to tighter composition control.

• Versus super duplex grades (S32760, Ferralium 255): SAF 2205 has lower corrosion resistance and strength, but is more cost-effective.

• Versus 316L: SAF 2205 delivers higher strength and better resistance to stress corrosion cracking in chloride environments.

Standards and Designations

• UNS S32205
• DIN 1.4462
• STM A182 F60
• EN 1.4462
• ISO 31803

Availability from Langley Alloys

Langley Alloys stocks SAF 2205 in both bar and plate, available ex-stock in the USA. In the UK, SAF 2205 is stocked in bar and hollow bar only.

Further Reading

For more information, see our Knowledge Hub articles:

• Is 2205 duplex or super duplex?

• Is 2205 a super duplex stainless steel?