From that tiny fork on your plate to the highest skyscraper in the world, stainless steel is an integral part of modern-day living. Its corrosion resistance, high strength, 100% recyclability, ductility, and low maintenance capabilities make it a star performer among many other metals. Today, manufacturers can choose from over a hundred grades of stainless steel. However, in this article, we are going to focus on some of the popular types.
This stainless steel slitting company in Portland, Oregon is going to review the types of stainless steel that are most commonly used in everyday residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
1. Grade 301 and 301L
The 301 stainless steel type exhibits excellent work hardening and is best suited for applications requiring increased strength. Its tensile strength, hardness, and magnetic property increase with cold working. With higher carbon content, the 301 stainless steel type can withstand mechanical forces better. However, its rust-proofing properties are less than 304/ 304L stainless steel. The material is ideal for manufacturing aircraft parts, bolts and nuts, conveyor belts, roofing products, springs, screens, etc.
2. Grade 304 and 304L
Type 304 stainless steel works well for parts and structures that might corrode if made with carbon steel. The grade is ideal for making auto parts, boilers, brewery equipment, cabinet hardware, indoor pipelines, liquid gas storage tanks, medical appliances, ship parts, surgical tools, tableware, and wastewater treatment devices. This type of steel has good corrosion resistance, hot workability, excellent mechanical properties, and heat resistance.
3. Grade 316 and 316L
Grade 316/316L can perform well in higher temperatures and has good work hardening capabilities. Bolts and nuts, chemical processing equipment, food and catering equipment, papermaking equipment, pharmaceutical equipment, photography gear, sanitaryware, and seawater equipment are typical applications suited for grades 316 and 316L. Also, when produced by a reputable stainless steel slitting company in Portland, Oregon, these types have better corrosion resistance than grade 304.
4. Grade 410
The 410 grade is usually referred to as general-purpose steel. Its numerous applications include manufacturing blots and nuts, cutlery, dental instruments, gas turbines, mechanical parts, train components, petroleum refining equipment, etc. With fantastic strength and workability, grade 410 falls short regarding corrosion resistance, especially compared to other stainless steel types.
5. Grade 430
Another popular stainless steel grade, 430, is one that has good corrosion resistance and better formability, but poor temperature resistance. Ideal applications include burners, car accessories, and home appliances. You can always contact a knowledgeable stainless steel slitting company in Portland, Oregon to learn how this grade can help you make a difference in your processes.
Final Thoughts
In general, stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance, welding performance, and low maintenance costs. The metal is high in strength, durable, and safe for various applications. You can also choose from several surface finishes, use the metal in high-pressure environments, and prevent high-temperature oxidation. Even the thermal expansion of stainless steel is fantastic. If you would like to learn more about the various grades of stainless steel that are available, do not hesitate to get in touch with a professional stainless steel slitting company in Portland, Oregon.
Looking for the Best Stainless Steel Slitting Company in Portland, Oregon?
Stainless steel is a recyclable, durable, and versatile metal. Unlike regular steel, stainless steel is stain-proof and rust-free, and you can find it milled into bars, coils, sheets, and tubes. If you are a manufacturer who is looking for a reputable stainless steel slitting company in Portland, Oregon for your unique applications, National Kwikmetal Services is the company to call. Contact us today at 1800-722-5029 to discuss your project.