STAINLESS STEEL OVERVIEW: TUTORIAL
Second Branch
Chromium Containing
The second branch also contain 12 to 18% chromium BUT has a LOWER carbon level
(less than 0.2%). Since the carbon is low, these grades have a different metallurgical
structure and are called "Ferritic" stainless steels. They have
the following characteristics:
- Are magnetic
- CANNOT be hardened by "heat treatment" (always used in the annealed or softened condition)
- Weldability is still poor
Common Uses:
- Automotive exhaust and fuel lines
- Architectural trim
- Cooking utensils
- Bank vaults
Common grades:
Stainless is designated by three different systems
- Metallurgical structure - Ferritic
- Grade: 409 (high temperature), 430 (most used)
- Unified Numbering System UNS: S40900, S43000
(Note chemistry and properties given for 430)