Lean Duplex Steel
This specialist Stainless Steel is increasingly being specified for demanding applications thanks to its combination of high strength and excellent corrosion resistance.
The dual-phase microstructure delivers significantly higher strength - typically around twice that of 304 or 316 stainless steel - along with excellent resistance to pitting, crevice corrosion and stress corrosion cracking.
At Steel Dynamics UK, we stock and process several premium Lean Duplex grades to meet a wide range of industrial and architectural requirements.
Lean Duplex
Lean Duplex is a type of duplex alloy that combines the best characteristics of both austenitic and ferritic stainless steels. The “lean” designation refers to its reduced alloying content, particularly in nickel and molybdenum, which makes it more cost-effective and sustainable without compromising on performance.
Lean Duplex. Grades we have available are:
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LDX 2101 - 1.4162, offering superior corrosion resistance to 304 & 316 grades
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DX 2202 - 1.4062, with enhanced properties compared to grade 304L
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EDX 2304 - 1.4362, which is a cost-efficient alternative for 316L steel
Lean Duplex Applications
The strength and corrosion resistance of Lean Duplex make it suitable for a diverse range of applications across multiple industries. It is widely used in architectural and structural fabrications, pressure vessels, storage tanks and process piping systems.
In addition, it is often specified for water treatment facilities, desalination plants, chemical processing, transport equipment and offshore or coastal structures.
The combination of high strength and good formability allows designers and fabricators to use thinner sections and lighter structures, reducing both material usage and overall fabrication costs while maintaining performance and longevity.
Why Lean Duplex
Many of our customers choose Lean Duplex because it offers the ideal balance between cost, performance and sustainability. Compared with conventional austenitic grades such as 304 and 316, Lean Duplex delivers greater corrosion resistance, roughly twice the mechanical strength and lower alloying costs due to reduced nickel and molybdenum content.
When compared to standard Duplex or Super Duplex grades, Lean Duplex provides a more economical solution while still offering excellent corrosion resistance and strength for most general engineering and fabrication environments.
It is also easier to process and weld, reducing production time and costs. As a result, Lean Duplex is often the most efficient choice for projects where both performance and cost-effectiveness are key considerations.
At Steel Dynamics UK, we understand the importance of material integrity and consistency. That’s why all our Lean Duplex stainless steel sheet and plate is sourced from leading European mills and processed in-house to meet the most demanding quality and traceability standards.
Whether you are developing new structural designs, fabricating tanks and vessels, or upgrading to more durable materials, Lean Duplex stainless steel from Steel Dynamics UK offers a strong, sustainable and cost-effective solution that delivers long-term performance and value.
