Stainless steel is a steel alloy in use since 1915 due to its good mechanical and corrosion resistance properties. Stainless steel contains various alloying elements, such as copper, titanium, nickel, molybdenum and chromium. Chromium has a high affinity for oxygen, and forms a thin film of chromium oxide at a molecular level. This thin invisible film gives steel its unique rigidity and corrosion resistance features. There are many grades of secondary stainless steels that suit different environments where the alloy is used. Here are the three commonly used grades of Secondary Stainless Steel Coils.
304 / 304L Stainless Steel Coils
304 / 304L stainless steel coils are the most widely used grades of stainless steel coils. They contain about 18 percent chromium and 8 percent nickel. 304 / 304L stainless steel coils are considered for a wide variety of applications where one or more of the following properties are important: corrosion resistance, resistance to oxidation, prevention of product contamination, ease of cleaning, beauty of appearance and excellent formability. The combination of these properties is the reason for the extensive use of these alloys, which represents about one-half of the total stainless steel production in the U.S.
316/316L Stainless Steel Coils
The 316/316L stainless steel coils are a part of the austenitic family of stainless. They contain a high level of nickel than the 304 grades, giving them improved corrosion resistance features. 316/316L stainless steel coils offer higher creep, stress-to-rupture and tensile strength at elevated temperatures. They are ideal for fabricated and formed applications. Some common applications for 316/316L stainless steel coils include petroleum and oil refining equipment, textile industry equipment and food processing equipment.
321 Stainless Steel Coils
The 321 stainless steel coils are basically a 304 grade containing a stabilizer of titanium. They are ideal for applications where heat is an issue. They can withstand temperatures of up to 900 degrees Celsius, while the 304 grades are usually used up to 500 degrees Celsius. 321 stainless steel coils have good forming and welding characteristics. They do not polish well, and thus are not suitable for decorative applications.
Other commonly used grades of Secondary Stainless Steel Coils include the 410 and 430 grades. For more information about quality stainless steel coils, and how to contact a reputable stainless steel supplier. You can also follow them on Twitter.
