The characteristics of stainless steel differ from carbon steel at common room temperatures and high temperatures. This is due to the high alloy content of stainless steel. At room temperature, stainless steel exhibits a more rounded stress–strain response than carbon steel at lower temperatures and does not have a sharply defined yield point. This is accompanied by a higher ratio of ultimate-to-yield stress and greater ductility. At higher temperatures, however, stainless steel typically has better retention of strength and stiffness in comparison to carbon steel. For applications that require exposure to elevated temperature, stainless steel can be better solution than carbon steel. Both can be effectively utilized in the investment casting process.
