With its unparalleled resistance to corrosion, the 300 stainless steel series is, by far, the most commonly used grade for commercial purposes.
So, what makes it an excellent choice for most commercial applications? Here are some things you need to know.
The 300 stainless steel series (types 303, 304 and 316) is more corrosion resistant as compared to the 400 series, is non-magnetic and can only be hardened through cold working.
It is collectively known as the "18-8" since it contains approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel.
If you are not yet aware of it, the addition of these alloying elements to iron makes it particularly resistant to corrosion.
So, while there is very little difference among the 18-8 types, the slight variation in their chemical composition make them ideally suited for particular applications.
Type 303 Type 303 or "A1" has the same corrosion resistance as type 304 but is slightly less resistant as compared to type 316.
They all have similar mechanical properties but the higher sulfur content of type 303 allows for easier machining.
As such, it is used for applications that need a good surface finish.
Gears, shafts, aircraft fittings and bushings are typically made with type 303 stainless steel.
Type 304 This is the most widely used of all stainless steel grades and is ideally suited for applications that expose it to mildly corrosive chemicals such as those found in meats, fruits, vegetables and milk.
It is also resistant to sterilizing solutions, food dyes, and a wide range of organic and inorganic materials.
As such, it is widely used in the food processing industry and in the manufacture of kitchenware (sinks and tabletops, refrigerators, cooking appliances, pots and pans, and tableware).
Type 316 Type 316 typically contains 16% to 18% chromium, 11% to 14% nickel and 2% molybdenum.
The addition of molybdenum to the mix makes the alloy even more resistant to corrosion and thus, more ideal for applications which deal with severe chemical environments.
This unique chemical combination makes it the alloy of choice for most food and beverage processing, chemical processing and pulp and paper processing industries.
Its superior resistance to chloride corrosion also makes it suitable for most marine applications.
In addition, this type is also used for building nuclear reprocessing plants.
The extra low-carbon grade (316L), on the other hand, is most commonly used for marine applications and in the manufacture of stainless steel watches.