Stainless steel are magnetic like carbon steel. They are problematic to weld due to grain growth in the heat affected zone which reduces ductility and may result in cracks. Increasing chromium and molybdenum contents increase corrosion resistance as it does for austenitic stainless steels, however, this high alloying results in the precipitation of embrittling intermetallic phase upon welding. These microstructural problems due to welding restrict the use of ferritic stainless steels to very thin thicknesses and thus are not used in the construction of large heavy walled vessels and tanks, and structures like austenitic stainless steels. Common ferritic grades are: Type AISI
The Stainless Steel Rat name is not revealed to the reader. The Kekkonshiki, also known as "The Gray Men", are a human culture who initially prefer domination to coexistence. Their expertise lies in using technology to manipulate sentient minds, and they have manipulated both humans and aliens on a grand scale. Jim has experienced one of their techniques (in which a gray man agent seemingly severs his hands with an axe; this was an illusion). Jim has knowingly opposed them on two separate occasions ("The Stainless Steel Rat's Revenge" & "The Stainless Steel Rat Wants You") however during conversation it is revealed by Kome