Stainless Steel Grades

Stainless steel is a versatile material with a wide range of applications, and different grades of stainless steel are designed to meet specific needs in terms of corrosion resistance, strength, and other properties. The two main categories of stainless steel grades are austenitic and ferritic, with subcategories like martensitic and duplex. Here are some common stainless steel grades:
Austenitic Stainless Steels:
304 (S30400) / 304L (S30403):
The most common stainless steel grade.
Excellent corrosion resistance, suitable for a wide range of applications.
304L is a low-carbon version, minimizing sensitization during welding.
316 (S31600) / 316L (S31603):
Contains molybdenum for enhanced corrosion resistance, especially in chloride environments.
Widely used in marine and chemical processing applications.
316L is the low-carbon version.
321 (S32100):
Contains titanium, offering better high-temperature strength and resistance to carbide precipitation.
Suitable for applications involving elevated temperatures.
310 (S31000):
High-temperature resistance and good corrosion resistance.
Often used in heat treatment and chemical processing.
Ferritic Stainless Steels:
430 (S43000):
Good corrosion resistance, especially in mildly corrosive environments.
Commonly used in decorative applications, appliances, and automotive trim.
409 (S40900):
Resistant to corrosion and suitable for high-temperature applications.
Used in automotive exhaust systems.
Martensitic Stainless Steels:
410 (S41000):
Good corrosion resistance and high strength.
Used in applications such as cutlery and dental and surgical instruments.
420 (S42000):
Higher carbon content than 410, providing increased strength and hardness.
Commonly used in cutlery, blades, and surgical instruments.
Duplex Stainless Steels:
2205 (S32205):
Combines the benefits of austenitic and ferritic stainless steel.
Excellent corrosion resistance and high strength.
Widely used in chemical processing, oil and gas, and marine applications.
2507 (S32750):
Higher alloy content than 2205, providing superior corrosion resistance.
Used in aggressive environments, such as chemical processing and oil and gas.
Precipitation-Hardening Stainless Steels:
17-4 PH (S17400):
Offers a combination of high strength and good corrosion resistance.
It is commonly used in aerospace applications, nuclear reactors, and chemical processing. These are just a few examples, and there are many other stainless steel grades, each tailored to specific applications. The choice of grade depends on factors such as the environment, temperature, corrosion resistance requirements, and mechanical properties needed for a particular application.