
Stainless Steel Distributor
Stainless steel is an alloy, which is iron-based and
contains various combinations of other elements to give it
characteristics suitable for a wide range of applications.
The element that makes stainless steel stainless is
chromium. By definition, any steel, which contains a minimum
of 11% chromium, is a stainless steel. The chromium content
in the steel produces a rich, transparent oxide film, which
coats the steel and protects it from corrosion and
oxidation.
For more information or to receive a prompt stainless
steel price quote, please contact
us at 800 398-4345 or submit the
Request Information form on the right side of this page.
SHEET & PLATE
|
Sizes:
.010 to .160 x R/W x R/L
.188 to 3.00 x R/W x R/L
|
TYPE |
SPECIFICATIONS |
301 ANN |
AMS-5515 |
301 1/4 HARD |
AMS-5517 |
301 1/2 HARD |
AMS-5518 |
301 FULL HARD |
AMS-5519 |
302 ANN |
AMS-5516 |
304 ANN |
AMS-5513 |
304L ANN |
AMS-5513 |
316 ANN |
AMS-5524 |
321 ANN |
AMS-5510 |
347 ANN |
AMS-5512 |
410 ANN |
AMS-5504 |
17-4 PH |
AMS-5604, MIL-S-81501 |
17-7 PH |
AMS-5528, 5529, MIL-S-25043 |
19-9 DL |
AMS-5526 |
AM-350 |
AMS-5546, 5548 |
AM-355 |
AMS-5547, 5549 |
COIL
|
Sizes: .006 to .160 x R/W x
R/L
Condition:
Annealed, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, Full Hard
|
TYPE |
SPECIFICATIONS |
200 SERIES |
- |
300 SERIES |
- |
400 SERIES |
- |
17-4 PH |
AMS-5604, MIL-S-81501 |
17-7 PH |
AMS-5528, 5529, MIL-S-25043 |
ROD, BAR & FORGINGS
|
Sizes
Rounds .125 to 8.00
Squares .125 to 6.00
Hexagons .250 to 3.00
Rectangles .125 to .188
|
TYPE |
SPECIFICATIONS |
302 |
AMS-5636, 5637 |
303 |
AMS-5640 |
303SE |
AMS-5640, 5641 |
304 |
AMS-5639 |
304L |
AMS-5647 |
316 |
AMS-5648, 5649, ASTM-F-138 |
316L |
AMS-5648, 5649 |
321 |
AMS-5645 |
347 |
AMS-5646, 5654 |
410 |
AMS-5613 |
430 |
AMS-5627 |
13-8 MO |
AMS-5629 |
15-5 PH |
AMS-5659 |
17-4 PH |
AMS-5622, 5643 |
17-7 PH |
AMS-5644 |
21-6-9 |
AMS-5656 |
AM-350 |
AMS-5745 |
AM-355 |
AMS-5743, 5744 |
GREEK ASCOLOY |
AMS-5616 |
CUSTOM 455³ |
AMS-5617 |
TUBING
|
Sizes:
.020 to 12.00 OD
.002 to 4.00 Wall
|
TYPE |
SPECIFICATIONS |
T304-(S)-ANN |
AMS-5560, 5567, MIL-T-8504, 8506 |
T304-(W)-ANN |
AMS-5565, 5567, MIL-T-8504, 8506 |
T304-(S/W)-1/8 HD |
AMS-5566, MIL-T-6845 |
T304-(S/W)-1/4 HD |
MIL-T-5695 |
T304-(S/W)-1/2 HD |
MIL-T-5695 |
T321-(S)-ANN |
AMS-5570, MIL-T-8606, 8808 |
T321-(W)-ANN |
AMS-5576, MIL-T-8606, 8808 |
T321-(S/W)-ANN |
AMS-5557, MIL-T-8606, 8808 |
T321-(W)-ANN |
MIL-T-6737 |
T347-(S)-ANN |
AMS-5571, MIL-T-8606, 8808 |
T347-(W)-ANN |
AMS-5575, MIL-T-8606, 8808 |
T347-(S/W)-ANN |
AMS-5556, MIL-T-8606, 8808 |
T347-(W)-ANN |
MIL-T-6737 |
T316-(S)-ANN |
AMS-5573 |
T310-(S)-ANN |
AMS-5572 |
T410-(S)-ANN |
AMS-5591, 5613 |
21-6-9-(W)-ANN |
AMS-5561, BMS-7-185, LAC-08-1173, DMS-1944 |
17-7 PH |
AMS-5568 |
American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) Designation System
300's -
Chromium-Nickel Stainless Steel this series is austenitic, non-heat treatable, and non-magnetic.
400's - Chromium Stainless Steel this series is martensitic, heat treatable and magnetic. It also includes types, which are ferrite, non-heat treatable, and
magnetic.
"L" at the end of the series number indicates low-carbon content. (Example: 304L) "F" at
the end of the series number indicates the addition of a "free-machining" element. (Example: 440F)
Other letters used at the end of the series number signify the symbol of the element
added to the alloy. (Example: 440C - the C being the symbol for the Carbon additive)
Stainless Steel Classifications
There are four basic classes of stainless steels, so designated for the metallurgical conditions of the steels:
Class I: Martensitic - Heat treatable, Straight” Chromium
This class is so named for the man, Martens, who first examined metals microscopically. It is referred to as "martensitic" because of its acicular or needle-like
microstructure in the hardened condition. Its chief alloying agent is chromium, found in amounts from 11.5 to 18.0%. It contains from
0.08 to 1.10% carbon. It is magnetic and responds excellently to heat treating, producing a hard and strong stainless steel.
Class II: Ferritic - Non-Heat treatable, Straight Chromium
This class name is derived from the Latin word "ferrum" meaning iron. It is so named because its microstructure is very similar to that of
low-carbon iron. It also utilizes chromium as its chief alloying agent, being found in amounts from 14.0 to 27.0%. It has a very low
carbon content of .08 to .20%. Due to its high chromium and low carbon content, ferritic alloys do not generally harden in high
temperatures. It is a magnetic alloy, and is soft and ductile.
Class III: Austenitic - Non-Heat treatable, Chromium-Nickel
The austenitic class derives its name from Roberts-Austen who
first observed its characteristic banded grain structure. Its
chief alloys are: chromium, found in amounts from 16.0 to 26.0%;
and a appreciable nickel content from 6.0 to 22.0%. This alloy
cannot be heat treated, but responds excellently to cold
working. It is generally non-magnetic. In the annealed
condition, this alloy is tough, strong, and extremely ductile.
Austenite itself is soft and tough and remains ductile even at
extreme low temperatures.
Class IV: Precipitation-Hardening
This is a relatively new class metallurgists have deemed necessary to group separately because of
its increasing popularity. These alloys have low hardening temperatures that produce precipitation hardening. This capability
averts problems such as warping, cracking, and scaling. They can be hardened by simple heat treatments, require no stress-relief
treatment and are available in all forms. These grades are easily fabricated, and are corrosion resistant without added treatment.
They are also known for their high strength. An American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) Type designation has not been issued these
grades, as they are patented proprietary.
Extra-Low-Carbon (ELC) Grades
These alloys contain only approximately .03% carbon, which is low enough to permit elimination of carbide precipitation during
welding. These grades are not generally recommended for high-temperature utilization.
Effects of Alloying Elements
Aluminum (Al) - acts as an active degasifier and deoxidizer. Controls inherent grain size.
Bismuth (Si) - acts to improve machinability.
Boron (B) - improves hardenability and increases depth
of hardening. Usually found in amounts of .0005 to .003%. Carbon (C) - improves hardenability, and
increases tensile strength and response to heat treatment when added in amounts of 0.8 to 0.9%. If
amount is further increased, heat and cold workability would greatly decrease, and the alloy would begin to
exhibit the characteristics of cast iron. Chromium (Cr) - gives stainless steel its stainless
quality. Increases response to heat treatments and depth of hardness. In combination with nickel, greatly
increases corrosion and oxidation resistance. Also increases toughness, tensile strength, and resistance to
wear. Cobalt (Co) - increases strength and hardenability of alloy. Improves effectiveness of other
elements. Columbium (Cb) - increases immunity to carbide precipitation and inter-granular corrosion.
Copper (Cu) - increases corrosion resistance and improves tensile and yield strengths without loss of
ductility. Iron (Fe) - this is the basic element of steel. Iron by itself lacks strength and does not
respond to heat treatment; it is soft and ductile.
Lead (Pb) - greatly improves machinability in quantities of .15 to .35%. Manganese (Mn) - normally
present in all steel. Increases strength, hardness and response to heat treatment in amounts of .5 to 15%. It
acts as a degasifier and deoxidizer, and increases the alloy's resistance to wear. In combination with sulfur,
improves forgeability. Molybdenum (Me) - increases strength, hardness penetration, and
machinability. Aids in resisting softening at high temperatures, and improves resistance to corrosion.
Nickel (Ni) - in amounts of 1.0 to 35% improves the strength and impact resistance without loss of
ductility. Increases resistance to corrosion, but decreases work hardening. Improves machinability and
fabricability. Nitrogen (N) - can serve as a substitute for a portion of nickel in alloys. Improves
machinability by producing a fine chip. Phosphorus (P) - increases yield strength, hardness and
machinability and greatly improves resistance to corrosion. Ductility is decreased at low temperatures.
Selenium (Se) - serves to improve machinability. Silicon (Si) - it is a common degasifier and
deoxidizer. Increases tensile strength, hardenability and forgeability. At high temperatures, resists
corrosion and scaling. Sulfur (S) - in amounts of .06 to .3%, increases machinability. It is not
recommended for alloys used in hot forming. It decreases weldability and ductility. Tantalum (Ta) - used
primarily as a stabilizer. It also prevents localized carbon depletion. Tellurium (Te) - when added to leaded
steels, greatly improves machinability. Titanium (Ti) - serves to increase immunity to carbide
precipitation and resistance to corrosion and oxidation. Tungsten (W) - produces a fine, dense
grain. Increases hardness in high-speed steel at high temperatures. Vanadium (V) - increases shock
resistance, strength, and hardness. Retards grain growth even after exposure to high temperatures. |
Stainless Steel Sheet Finishes
No. 1 Finish - this finish is mainly used for
applications where appearance is secondary. It is hot
rolled, annealed, and pickled. No. 2B Finish -
used primarily for drawn or formed parts, this is a
bright, cold rolled sheet finish. No. 2D Finish
- this finish is similar in application to the 2B
Finish, but is a dull, cold rolled sheet finish.
No. 3 Polish - a 100 grit abrasive belt is used here to
produce a ground surface. This polish is a standard mill
finish. No. 4 Polish - a 150 grit abrasive belt
is used here to produce a bright, highly polished
surface. This process offers a finish that is not only
beautiful, but is exceptionally corrosion resistant and
easy to clean. No. 6 Polish - a Tampico brush is
used here for a contrasting trim and softness of
appearance. No. 7 Polish - this finish is the
most highly reflective, having an extremely highly
polished surface. |
Type 301
This grade is an austenitic stainless steel manufactured by-the electric furnace process. Its chromium and nickel content are
lower than most other grades, offering the advantage of a high work-hardening rate which combines cold-worked high strength with
good ductility. Tensile strength and hardness increase rapidly when the metal is cold rolled, cold drawn, or worked at room temperature.
The standards of the aircraft industry are met by requiring adequate discard to be extracted from each ingot. Its application is
indicated where low cost is desired and high corrosion resistance is not a primary concern.
Applications |
Type 301 finds its primary usage in products necessitating great strength, but where working at elevated temperatures is
not required. Used extensively in aircraft components, truck components and bodies, decorative applications, and etc. |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
Does not possess as high a degree of corrosion resistance as
Type 302, but does remain unaffected by most normal atmospheric
conditions. |
Types 302, 304, 304L
Type 302 is the fundamental alloy of the austenitic class. It is commonly known as "18-8": 18% chromium; 8% nickel; and
is the most commonly used of all the stainless grades, Type 302 is non-heat treatable, but cold-working considerably increases both its
hardness and tensile strength. Type 302 in the cold state offers great versatility of workability because of its toughness and
ductility and can be rigorously spun, rolled, drawn or machined. It offers outstanding weldability. It is extremely resistant to
corrosion, and retains an untarnished silvery surface. It is also resistant to heat oxidation at temperatures up to 1500° F. It is
non-magnetic in the annealed condition. The principal drawback of Type 302 is that of sensitization-under extreme conditions, carbide
precipitation may occur. Type 304 alleviates this problem by decreasing the carbon content and thereby eliminating the
possibility of intergranular corrosion. This low carbon alloy is most often utilized for applications requiring welding. An Extra Low
Carbon alloy, Type 304L is also available for especially severe welding applications. Type 304L has the capability to avert any
detrimental precipitation in the extreme 800° F. to 1650° F. range.
Applications |
Both types are extremely popular in the food and
dairy industries and for use in pharmaceutical equipment. It is exceedingly useful in applications where good mechanical properties
and corrosion resistance are essential. It is highly desirable for products such as instrumentation where non-magnetism is fundamental.
These grades are available in a wide range of forms and finishes. |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
Types 302, 304 and 304L exhibit good corrosion resistant qualities, particularly those corrosions caused
by atmospheric conditions or chemicals. They lose some resistance at temperatures of about 750° F. to 1500° F. due to carbide
precipitation. Type 304L however, has excellent corrosion resistant capabilities within this temperature range because of its low carbon
content. Maximum corrosion resistance in all these grades can be achieved by annealing. |
Types 303S & 303Se
Types 303S and 303Se are both free-machining modifications of Type 302. Sulfur or a combination of selenium and phosphorus are added to this "18-8"
chromium-nickel alloy to promote chip formation in machining rather than spindly spirals. Type 303 has uniform machinability and can be
machined at speeds of SAE 3120, 3145, and 4615, adapting it very well for automatic screw machine applications. Manufactured by the
electric-furnace process, this is a non-heat treatable alloy, the hardness and tensile strength of which may be increased greatly by
cold working. It has good corrosion resistance, and is non- magnetic in the annealed state. It concurs with the stringent requirements of
the aircraft industry.
Applications |
Type 303 is most commonly
used in applications requiring extensive machining, and where corrosion resistance, non-magnetism, and a good surface finish is
imperative. Common utilizations of this alloy include aircraft fittings, shafts, spindles, and automatic screw machine
applications. |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
Because of the additions of sulfur or selenium, the corrosion resistance of Type 303 is slightly lower than that of the other austenitic alloys.
However, annealing increases its resistance to corrosion substantially. |
Type 310
Type 310 is the grade of stainless steel containing the highest chromium-nickel content of
all grades - 25% chromium, 20% nickel, It is chiefly known for its superior scaling and corrosion resistance and it excels all other
grades in its high temperature physical properties. At extremely high temperatures, its creep strength and resistance to brittling
far surpasses all other austenitic grades. In the annealed state it is non-magnetic. Type 310 is a non-heat treatable alloy produced by
the electric-furnace process, which concurs with the exacting standards of the aircraft industry.
Applications |
Type 310 finds primary utilization in applications requiring excellent heat and oxidation resistance and where superior
strength is a must. Common applications are found in the aircraft industry for engine parts and parts requiring welding,
oil refinery equipment, heat exchangers and furnace parts, etc. |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
This
grade possesses excellent corrosion resistance and withstands
scaling at temperatures up to 2000° F. Its corrosion resistance
reaches a maximum in the annealed condition. |
Types 316 & 316L
Type 316 is an electric furnace processed modification of Type 302: it contains 18% chromium; 8% nickel, and; 2-3% molybdenum. This
addition of molybdenum increases both the corrosion resistance and the high temperature strength of this alloy. The most outstanding
advantage of this addition is the increased corrosion resistance to reducing acids and pitting or pin hole corrosion. In general, Type
316 is known as the major all-around corrosion resistant austenitic stainless steel available. Under extremely elevated temperatures,
Type 31 6 proves itself to possess remarkable creep and rupture strength, This non-heat treatable, non-magnetic alloy possesses
excellent cold forming and drawing properties, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Type 316L is an extra low carbon
modification of Type 316 recommended for use during welding operations. The low carbon factor eliminates the possibility of
harmful carbide precipitation in the 800° F. to 1500° F. range.
Applications |
Type 316 and Type 316L find their greatest use in the chemical, textile, paper, pharmaceutical, and photographic
industries because of their excellent resistance to chemical corrosion. They also find use where the combination of
corrosion resistance and extremely high strength at elevated temperatures is necessary. |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
Type 316 is known to be more resistant to atmospheric and chemical corrosion than any other grade
of the stainless steels. Maximum corrosion resistance may be obtained by fully annealing this alloy. If the application calls
for welding, Type 316L should be used as it is highly resistant to carbide precipitation and intergranular corrosion. Which usually
occurs at high temperatures. |
Type 321
Type 321 is an electric-furnace processed austenitic stainless steel. It is non-heat treatable and non-magnetic in the annealed condition. This
alloy contains 18% chromium, 8% nickel and a substantial addition of titanium. The titanium forms insoluble and stable carbide, which
ties up all the carbon in the alloy and therefore prevents it from precipitating as chromium carbides. This leaves the chromium in
solution to resist corrosion to a very high degree. This is extremely beneficial in applications of temperatures ranging from
800° F, to 1600° F., as it eliminates the necessity for re-annealing after fabrication.
Applications |
Type 321 is used principally for applications involving welding or sustained elevated temperature operations where
re-annealing is not practical, It is used extensively in the aircraft and missile industries for engine parts, heat
exchangers, exhaust stacks, rocket engines, manifolds, and etc. |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
This alloy is extremely resistant to intergranular corrosion and has very good corrosion resistance in weld areas. It has slightly less corrosion resistance
to atmospheric conditions than Type 302 or Type 304 in the annealed condition. |
Type 347
Type 347 is a non-heat treatable, austenitic, electric furnace processed grade of stainless steel very
similar in composition to Type 321. The major difference between Type 321 and Type 347 is that rather than having an addition of
titanium, Type 347 has columbium added to it. Tantalum occurs in nature in conjunction with columbium and therefore it may be said
that both are additives to this alloy. Type 347 can withstand more severely elevated temperatures than Type 321, as the resulting
columbium carbide is more stable and insoluble than the titanium carbide. The only drawback in the use of Type 347 as opposed to Type
321 is that it is not recommended for use in radioactive services as radioactive tantalum has a much longer half-life than columbium. It
is non-magnetic in the annealed state.
Applications |
Type 347 is mainly used where corrosion resistance and sustained operations at temperatures between 800° F. and 1600° F. is of the utmost
importance. It is also a superior grade for use on heavy welded objects, which cannot be re-annealed. It finds its principal
applications in aircraft and missile engines, high temperature equipment in chemical industry, manifolds, furnace and blower parts,
and etc. |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
Resistance to intergranular corrosion and carbide precipitation is excellent with this grade. Its general atmospheric corrosion resistance is good, being similar
to that of Type 302. |
Type 410
Type 410 is a magnetic, martensitic, heat treatable alloy that is 12% straight chromium. It has excellent creep strength
and corrosion resistance. Heat treatments may be applied to develop a very wide range of mechanical properties and hardness.
It is popularly used for parts operating at temperatures up to 850° F.
Applications |
Because of its high strength and versatility in heat treatment applicability, and because of its good mechanical and
machining properties, Type 410 finds usage in a wide range of applications. It is used for low-cost cutlery, food industry
machine parts, pump shafts, valve parts, compressor shrouds, and abrasive applications. It is not generally recommended for
high-stress usage above 1200° F. |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
Type 410 has excellent corrosion resistance to normal atmospheric conditions discoloration or a rusty film may
occur under some conditions, but destructive scaling will not occur. It reaches its maximum corrosion resistance when hardened and
polished. |
Type 416
Type 416 is an electric furnace processed, magnetic, free-machining grade of the martensitic stainless steels. It is a
modification of Type 410 with approximately .30% sulfur added for excellent machinability. Like Type 410, it has an exceptionally wide
range of mechanical properties obtainable through heat treating, This grade of stainless steel has the highest machinability of all
grades now developed, and can often be used in the "as machined" condition without heat treatment.
Applications |
Because of its excellent machinability, corrosion resistance, and high strength. Type 416 is normally used for applications requiring extensive or
high speed machining such as: nuts and bolts; pump parts; screw machine parts; and etc. |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
This grade has
very good overall corrosion resistance to normal atmospheric conditions, mildly corrosive chemicals, and acidic or alkaline
water. Hardening and polishing increases its corrosion to its maximal level. Resists scaling at temperatures up to approximately
1300° F. |
15-5 PH Precipitation Hardening
15-5 PH is a chromium-nickel alloy containing a 5% copper additive, which permits it to be hardened by low temperature heat treatments. The high
percentages of chromium and nickel give-15-5 PH excellent corrosion resistance, transverse toughness and forgeability. This alloy is
produced by the vacuum arc re-melt method, which enhances ductility and toughness. 15-5 PH has excellent physical and mechanical
properties and may be deep drawn, forged, welded and formed.
Applications |
15-5 PH is very similar both in composition and
application to 17-7 PH. Because of its high strength and excellent corrosion resistance, 15-5 PH finds extensive use in the aircraft
and missile industries for parts ranging from instrumentation to landing gear components. |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
15-5 PH has
excellent overall corrosion resistance, being comparable to that of Type 304 in most media. Heat-treating increases to the highest
degree its resistance to stress-corrosion cracking. |
17-4PH Precipitation Hardening
17-4 PH is a chromium-nickel alloy that has a 4% copper additive, which enables it to be hardened by
very low-temperature heat treatments known as precipitation hardening. The high percentages of chromium and nickel give this
alloy excellent corrosion resistance, physical properties, and a high level of strength at temperatures up to 800° F. The major
advantage of low temperature heat treatments is the elimination of distortion and scaling. 17-4 PH has excellent mechanical properties
and may easily be welded, deep drawn, forged, and severely formed.
Applications |
This alloy is excellently suited for applications
requiring high strength, good corrosion resistance and good
resistance to seizing and galling. 17-4 PH finds extensive use in
the aircraft and missile fields, for motor shafts, instrument parts,
gears, and etc. |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
The corrosion
resistance of 17-4 PH is slightly less-than-the superior resistance
of the chromium-nickel grades, but is somewhat higher than the
straight chromium grades. It possesses very good corrosion
resistance against all atmospheric conditions. Finish and heat
treatment affect the level of corrosion resistance beneficially. |
17-7PH Precipitation Hardening
17-7 PH contains 17% chromium, 7% nickel and 1% aluminum. It is a precipitation hardening steel capable of reaching very high strength and hardness
without any loss of corrosion resistance. Surface scaling and distortion in heat treatment is eliminated by its ability to be
treated at very low temperatures. In the annealed condition, it has excellent ductility and machineability. It retains remarkable
mechanical and physical properties at temperatures up to 800° F.
Applications |
17-7 PH is used for applications necessitating high strength, good corrosion resistance and good mechanical
properties at elevated temperatures. Characteristic applications include surgical instruments, springs, bearings, aircraft
panels, and etc. |
|
Corrosion Resistance |
The corrosion resistance of 17-7 PH is
superior to the straight chromium grades. Surface finish and aged heat treatments tend to have a beneficial effect upon the corrosion
resistance of 17-7 PH. |
Aerospace Stainless Steel
Generally
speaking, oxidation or corrosion resistance is proportional to
the amount of chromium contained in the steel. In order for the
chromium additive to accomplish this, oxygen must be present.
Should any breaks in the chromium oxide coating occur, the
chromium oxide, in the presence of oxygen, can regenerate itself
and therefore sustain this protection. Should there be an
absence of oxygen, or in some reducing conditions, this
protective film may be destroyed, and consequently, the
stainless steel is termed active. Most stainless or heat
resisting steels are either melted by the electric furnace
process or vacuum arc re-melted. Heat treatment for hardness
and strength is recommended mainly for the straight chromium
steels. Cold working is generally utilized for the
chromium-nickel classes of steel and has the advantage of
increasing strength while retaining good ductility.
|