| STAINLESS - FACT SHEET
ON POPULAR GRADES The
American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) has assigned the following
designations for stainless steel and are considered industry standards |
| Type |
Tensile
Strength
|
Yield
Strength
|
Characteristics |
| 304
|
80/90,000
|
30/40,000
|
The basic 18-8 chromium-nickel
steel. The most widely used of the stainless heat resisting steel,
offers good corrosion resistance, formability, readily welded by most
common methods. Particularly good corrosion resistance after welding
where heat treating is not possible. Hardness and tensile strength
increased by cold working. |
|
304L
|
Slightly lower than
straight grade above |
Slightly lower than
straight grade above |
L means extra low carbon, avoids harmful,
carbide precipitation following welding or stress relieving. Same
corrosion resistance, slightly lower mechanical properties. Low carbon
chromium nickel steel. |
|
303
|
85/95,000
|
30/40,000 |
18-8 chromium-nickel steel with addition
of selenium or sulphur, phosphorous to improve machinability (rating
of 60%, B-1112 rated 100%). Used for parts requiring machining, polishing
or grinding. Maximum corrosion resistance in annealed condition, fairly
good forming properties, only fair weldability. |
| 316 |
75/90,000 |
30/40,000 |
18-8 chromium-nickel steel with addition
of molybdenum for increased corrosion resistance and higher strength
at elevated temperatures. Good cold forming and drawing properties
make it the choice for many applications. Good weldability. |
| 316L |
Slightly lower than
straight grade above |
Slightly lower than
straight grade above |
Extra low carbon avoids harmful carbide
precipitation following welding or stress relieving. Retains many
of the excellent characteristics of T-316.
|
Other grades available: T-310 T-321
T-410 T-416 T-440
Many sizes are dual certified to Straight/L Grade. |
