Other Stainless Steels Grades

300-series, austenitic grades are the most widely used stainless steels.  These grades can be welded many times without changing metallurgically and are not hardened thermally but by cold-working. Regular 300-series grades have around 18 % chromium and 7% to 10% nickel content; molybdenum improves resistance to localized corrosion in chloride-containing environments. 300-series grades have good corrosion resistance but are susceptible to chloride stress corrosion cracking.  They resist oxidation and retain their (moderate) strength at elevated temperatures.

Available in coil, sheet, plate and tube

400-series, ferritic grades have 11 – 20% chromium and no nickel.  These grades are typically magnetic too.  They generally cost less than 300-series grades and even though 400-series grades resist chloride stress corrosion cracking they are generally less corrosion resistant than common 300-series grades under similar service conditions.  This group of stainless steel is known to for its good ductility and weldability.  400-series grades must be welded with care to avoid loss of ductility.

Available in coil, sheet, plate and tube

Duplex grades get their name from their properties , derived roughly of equal amounts of both austenite and ferrite in the microstructure.  Their dual-phase structure gives them substantially higher mechanical properties than austenitic and ferritic grades.  Duplex grades have significantly higher resistance to chloride stress corrosion cracking than 300-series grades.  Like 400-series grades, welding duplex grades requires care to minimize heat input to avoid loss of ductility.

Available in coil, sheet, plate and tube

“Crompion is also able to add value to all these grades with various hardness options and buff polish finishes.”