posco AMERICA

- 445NF expected to sell well in overseas markets

A new stainless material developed by POSCO, the 445NF, has been registered with the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) with the serial number S44536. The unified numbering system is an alloy designation system widely accepted in North America.

It is the second POSCO-developed ASTM-designated steel material, following the 329LD, which is currently sold under the trademark of POSDUO. Products under the ASTM registration are recognized as meeting global standards.

The 445NF steel has improved weldability, corrosion resistance and is more price competitive. It was achieved by adding 21 percent chrome and lowering carbon and nitrogen content. Mainly used for kitchen utensils and interior materials of elevators, the 445NF is expected to sell well in overseas markets including the United States.

As South Koreas leading steel maker, POSCO has been actively involved in the development of new materials in collaboration with Korea Machinery Meter and Petrochemical Testing & Research Institute, an umbrella organization of the Ministry of Knowledge Economy. They are also preparing ASTM registration for two new steel materials, the 304CuW and the 304J1.

By Kim Jun-yeon
junykim@posco.com