Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is an alloy steel that contains iron with a minimum of 10.5% chromium. The alloying element chromium creates a thin layer (passive film) on the surface of the steel that provides its corrosion resistance properties. Stainless steel is famous for its corrosion resistance, fire and heat resistance, hygiene, and high strength-to-weight properties.

Stainless Steel Grades:

303 – 304 – 420 – 440 – 440C

303 Stainless Steel

303 is a non-magnetic austenitic stainless steel that contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It is known for being the most readily machinable grade of austenitic stainless steel. This grade was designed to exhibit good machinability while having improved mechanical and corrosion resistance properties.

304 Stainless Steel

304 is a non-magnetic austenitic stainless steel that is known for its excellent forming and welding characteristics, and its good corrosion resistant properties. It is the most versatile and most commonly used grade of stainless steel, it is used in an extensive list of applications.

420 Stainless Steel

420 is a martensitic high-carbon stainless steel that is characterized by increased corrosion resistance, strength, and hardness in comparison to 410. This grade of steel is magnetic in both annealed and hardened conditions. 420 is an ideal grade for applications requiring good corrosion resistance and high hardness.

440C Stainless Steel

440C is a martensitic stainless steel that contains high levels of carbon and chromium. 440C stainless steel has the ability reach and retain excellent hardness and wear resistance. It is magnetic in all conditions and the wear resistance is best when in the hardened condition. 440C steel is known for having the highest hardness of all the stainless steel grades.