A protective passive oxide film can develop on steels with chromium contents above 12%, imparting to these steels “stainless” characteristics. By maintaining a suitable composition balance between carbon and chromium, a series of high strength stainless steels are produced (R23-R23XHC).

Components cast in these alloys meet specific hardness and wear resistance criteria through closely controlled heat treatment practices. Alloy toughness and versatility are enhanced by additions of nickel and molybdenum (R24).