The microstructure of duplex stainless steels is split approximately 50:50 between austenite and ferrite, and the balance of these phases provides the following benefits: Higher strength, approximately twice that of Type 304 austenitic stainless steel . This results in a reduction in the thickness of the plates used in fabrication, resulting in reduced weight, which is of particular importance in structural applications such as pressure vessels, storage tanks and bridges, as well as good weldability of thick plates, good low temperature toughness, stress resistance Corrosion cracking is important in many applications including hot water tanks, processing plants, brewing tanks and desalination plants.