The grades vary depending on the amount of Nickel, Molybdenum, Titanium and other elements in the chemical composition of the specific type of stainless steel. These elements are added to impact useful properties such as enhanced formability and corrosion resistance. Grades are usually referred to by a number (please see the table below). The right choice of steel grade depends on the application and use.
Please, find below more information about the most commonly used stainless steel grades that are also available on stock.
For other grades, please contact our sales people and we will be pleased to assist:
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AISI |
EN10088 |
DESCRIPTION |
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304 |
1.4301 |
304/4301 is a basic type of 18% chromium, 8% nickel austenitic stainless steel. Mechanical, friction and corrosion resistance is a main advantage. 304/4301 is characterized by good formability and weldability. It is the most versatile and widely used stainless steel, typically in chemical, petrochemical, food, kitchen, automotive, medical industry, boilers, and heat exchangers. |
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304L |
1.4307 |
304L/4307 is a low-carbon version of 304/4301. The lower carbon content results in improved resistance to intergranular corrosion in the welded condition. 304L/4307 is also characterized by good formability and weldability. It is used in chemical, mineral, oil and chemical storage tanks. It is usually used at temperatures below 400°C. |
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316 |
1.4401 |
316/4401 is a widely used Molybdenum alloyed austenitic stainless steel. Its higher molybdenum content results in increased corrosion resistance. It has good formability and weldability. 316 is often considered one of the most suitable choices for marine applications. Other common applications include: chemical, petrochemical, food, textile, paper industry, industrial atmosphere conditions. |
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316L |
1.4404 |
316L/4404 is a low-carbon alternative to 316/4401. The lower carbon content results in improved resistance against intergranular corrosion in the welded condition. 316L/4404 is also characterized by good formability and weldability. It is used in chemical, petrochemical, food, textile, paper industry, marine and industrial atmosphere conditions. It is usually used at temperatures below 400°C. |
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303 |
1.4305 |
303/4305 is the most readily machineable of all the austenitic grades of stainless steel. This is due to the presence of Sulphur in this type of steel. However, the sulfur addition does lower 303’s corrosion resistance and toughness slightly. It is an alloy used for bars and its main applications are: Shafts, Springs, Nuts & bolts, Gears, Aircraft fittings, Bushings |
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321 |
1.4541 |
321/4541 is a titanium-alloyed austenitic stainless steel with improved intergranular corrosion resistance for a wider temperature range. It is mostly used in the food industry, luxury food, film and photo industry as well as in the household, power station construction. |
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430 |
1.4016 |
430/4016 belongs to the ferritic group of steels and contains about 16% chromium. It combines good corrosion resistance, formability, ductility and good mechanical properties. It is used in kitchen equipment, household appliances, sinks, valves; rail and road vehicles, container building, warehouse, sound absorber, coal mining |
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