STAINLESS STEEL SHEETS AND PLATES OF VARIOUS GARDES SUCH AS
304 and 304L are also known as stainless steel 1.4301 and 1.307 respectively. Type 304 is the most versatile and widely used stainless steel.
316/L is generally composed of 16 to 18% chromium, 10 to 14% nickel, 2 to 3% molybdenum, and a small percentage of carbon. Adding molybdenum increases its corrosion resistance compared to other grades of stainless steel. The addition of other alloys further enhances its properties. The austenitic structure gives these grades excellent toughness, even down to cryogenic temperatures.
310 FOR HIGH TEMPERATURE USE IN BOILERS AND REFRACTORIES
Advance Information*
Introduction
Metal materials, especially stainless steel, alloy steel, ferrous, and non-ferrous metals, play a critical role across various industries due to their exceptional properties such as durability, strength, and resistance to corrosion and extreme temperatures. Among these, stainless steel holds significant prominence, with its diverse grades catering to different application needs.
Stainless Steel Sheets
Stainless steel sheets and plates are integral in multiple applications spanning construction, marine, automotive, and more. Understanding the distinct properties and uses of various grades of stainless steel can help in selecting the right material for specific requirements.
Stainless Steel Sheet in Grades of 202, 304, 316, 316L, 309, 310
Grade 202
- Chemical Composition: Chromium (17-19%), Nickel (4-6%), Manganese (7.5-10%), Nitrogen (up to 0.25%).
- Properties: High toughness at low temperatures, corrosion resistance, and formability.
- Applications: Domestic applications like kitchenware, automotive trims, and railway cars.
Grade 304
- Chemical Composition: Chromium (18-20%), Nickel (8-10.5%), Carbon (up to 0.08%).
- Properties: Excellent resistance to a variety of atmospheric environments and many corrosive media.
- Applications: Widely used in kitchen equipment, chemical processing equipment, and architectural applications.
Grade 304L
- Chemical Composition: Similar to Type 304 but with lower Carbon content (max 0.03%).
- Properties: Superior intergranular corrosion resistance over standard 304 due to lower carbon percentage.
- Applications: Ideal for welding applications where the material is exposed to high temperatures, petrochemical, and pharmaceutical industries.
Grade 316
- Chemical Composition: Chromium (16-18%), Nickel (10-14%), Molybdenum (2-3%), Carbon (up to 0.08%).
- Properties: Enhanced corrosion resistance due to molybdenum, better resistance to pitting in chloride environments.
- Applications: Utilized in marine environments, chemical processing, and medical devices.
Grade 316L
- Chemical Composition: Similar to 316 but lower Carbon content (max 0.03%).
- Properties: Improved stress-corrosion cracking resistance, superior formability, and weldability.
- Applications: Common in highly corrosive environments, such as chemical plants, marine applications, and surgical implants.
Grade 309
- Chemical Composition: Chromium (22-24%), Nickel (12-15%), Carbon (up to 0.20%).
- Properties: High-temperature oxidation resistance, more durable than austenitic steel.
- Applications: Used in furnace parts, heat exchangers, and as boiler linings.
Grade 310
- Chemical Composition: Chromium (24-26%), Nickel (19-22%), Carbon (up to 0.25%).
- Properties: Exceptional resistance to oxidation at high temperatures, superior strength at elevated temperatures.
- Applications: Suitable for high temperature applications in boilers, refractory supports, and heat-treatment equipment.
Analytical Comparisons
Versatility and Utility
304 is revered for its versatility, used widely in a range of industries. Its variant, 304L, with less carbon content, is highly effective in environments requiring welding.
Corrosion Resistance
316 and its low carbon variant, 316L, stand out due to their molybdenum content, offering enhanced pitting resistance in chloride environments, making them suitable for marine and chemical processing applications.
High Temperature Resistance
309 and 310 grades are unparalleled in their resistance to high temperatures, making them ideal for furnace parts and heat exchangers. They maintain stability and integrity even when subjected to extreme heat.
Detailed Analysis of Stainless Steel Grades
Type 304 and 304L (1.4301 and 1.307)
- Mechanical Properties: Yield strength (205 MPa), Tensile strength (515-740 MPa), Elongation (40%).
- Thermal Properties: High resistance to oxidation and scaling, especially in intermittent and continuous service up to 925°C.
- Fabrication: Easily welded and processed by standard shop fabrication practices.
Type 316 and 316L
- Mechanical Properties: Yield strength (240 MPa), Tensile strength (515-740 MPa), Elongation (40%).
- Thermal Properties: Excellent in a range of temperature services thanks to molybdenum's enhancing presence.
- Fabrication: Notable for its capability to be easily formed and welded.
Type 309 and 310
