Molybdenum
Molybdenum is a very solid and tough transition metal and has a silvery white gloss. For many centuries the metal was confused with lead because of its great similarity. Today molybdenum is mainly used as an alloying element, but is also applied in other industries.
In steel production, molybdenum is usually alloyed with other elements such as nickel, chromium and manganese. As an alloying element, it is very important for steel production, as it transfers its properties well to the products. High-strength, corrosion- and heat-resistant steels are achieved, but also acid-resistant rustproof steels.
The influence of molybdenum upon steel's properties:
| Property | Influence | Degree |
|---|---|---|
| Rust resistance | no bearing | 0 |
| Hardness | Improvement | + 1 |
| Strength | Improvement | + 1 |
| Yield strength | Improvement | + 1 |
| Elasticity | no bearing | 0 |
| Heat resistance | Improvement | + 2 |
| Carbide formation | Improvement | + 3 |
| Wear resistance | Improvement | + 2 |
| Nitratability | Improvement | + 2 |
| Strain | Decrease | - 1 |
| Reduction of area | Decrease | - 1 |
| Notched Impact Strength | Improvement | + 1 |
| Forgeability | Decrease | - 1 |
| Scaling | Improvement | + 2 |
| Machinability | Decrease | - 1 |
Trivia
Molybdenum is an essential trace element for all organisms, because it is needed for enzyme formation. It is also very important for plants, because it helps to bind nitrogen and decrease nitrate in the area around the roots.
See also
Accompanying Elements
Steel does not only consist of iron and carbon. Other elements can influence the properties of steel.
Read moreAlloying Elements
There is a large number of different alloying elements. Each one influences the material properties.
Read moreBauxite
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