There are three main ways to make stainless steel wire harder: cold working, heat treatment, and precipitation hardening. Each method is best suited for specific types of wire. For instance, cold working is ideal for austenitic alloys such as SS304/SS316 stainless steel wire.
You might ask if stainless steel wire can stop rust. The answer is yes—stainless steel wire fights corrosion in most places. This happens because makers add chromium to the alloy. Chromium makes a thin, invisible layer on the ten wire.
You crimp stainless steel wire by using a strong crimping tool and the right size sleeves or ferrules. Choose tools made for SS304/SS316 stainless steel wire because this metal is tough and resists bending. Always wear safety glasses and gloves.