Stainless steel is essentially a low-carbon steel that contains chromium at 10 percent or more by weight. Chromium gives steel its unique stainless and corrosion resistance characteristics. It allows the formation of an invisible, adherent, corrosion-resisting chromium oxide film on the steel surface. Other alloying elements added to improve the structure and properties of steel are nickel, molybdenum, titanium, and copper. The selection of a particular type and grade of stainless steel must meet the corrosion resistance requirements. In addition, physical or mechanical properties must also be taken into account to achieve the overall service performance requirements. Here are the commonly used grades of Stainless Steel Plates.
304/304L Stainless Steel Plate
304/304L stainless steel plate are the most versatile and widely used varieties of stainless steel plates. They are a part of the austenitic family of stainless steel and are used in wide range of applications such as food processing and handling, conveyors, chemical process vessels, and heat exchangers. 304 grades have excellent corrosion resistance in a variety of different media. They respond well to hardening by cold working since they have excellent low-temperature properties. 304/304L stainless steel plates have good welding characteristics, and post-weld annealing is not needed to restore performance.
316/316L Stainless Steel Plates
316/316L alloys are types of austenitic stainless steels. They contain a higher level of Nickel than 304 stainless steel plate making them have an improved corrosion resistance. 316/316L stainless steel plates are suitable for marine applications due to their good atmospheric corrosion resistance properties.
321 Stainless Steel Plates
The 321 stainless steel plates are 304-grade stainless steels that contain a stabilizer of titanium. 321 Stainless Steel Plates are used in applications where heat is an issue. They have excellent forming and welding characterizes. Since 321 stainless steel plates do not polish well, they are not used for decorative purposes.
These are just some important details to know about the common types of Stainless Steel Plates. For additional details about grades and types of stainless steel and how to contact a reputable supplier.
