Stainless Steel Applications by Grade

The most obvious difference between stainless steel and ordinary steel is, as the name suggests, that it does not rust. This rust resistance also makes it highly durable against environmental factors. These properties have made it the material of choice in many industries, with manufacturing, construction, and architecture among the biggest users.

The main factor that gives stainless steel its rust resistance is its chromium content. When chromium comes into contact with oxygen, it forms a hard, protective layer on the surface of the material. Because this layer is so robust, many industries have chosen stainless steel over the alternatives.

Stainless steel is a diverse and versatile material, and this diversity has only added to its popularity. Traditionally associated with heavy industry, it has more recently made its way into the chemical industry as well, chiefly because of how effectively it resists corrosion. The wide range of available grades is another reason it is chosen for so many applications. The industries and the grades they use are listed below.

Where Each Stainless Steel Grade Is Used

304

This is the standard, most widely used grade. It offers excellent oxidation resistance at high temperatures and performs very well against wear and abrasion. These properties make it the preferred choice for kitchen, household, industrial, and food-processing applications.

304 L

This low-carbon variant is mainly used in the paper, soap, and chemical industries.

309 S

Offering the best high-temperature performance among stainless steel grades, this grade withstands temperatures of up to approximately 1,050 degrees. It is therefore used in all systems that require high-temperature service.

310

Comparable to 309S in heat resistance, grade 310 stainless steel withstands temperatures of up to 1,100 degrees. This makes it a frequent choice for furnace components.

310 S

Just as effective as the 310 series, 310S has the same properties as 310 and is used in the same environments.

316

Compared with the 304 and 321 series, the 316 series performs at temperatures of up to 600 degrees and provides very good resistance to oxidation and acids. These properties have made it a standard material in the chemical, steam boiler, and petroleum industries.

316 L

Produced with a low carbon content, the 316L series performs well at temperatures of around 400 degrees. It is the preferred choice in the chemical, petroleum, and nuclear industries.

316 Ti

The titanium-stabilized version of grade 316, 316Ti is widely used at high temperatures. Typical applications include chemical plants, furnaces, and boilers.

321

The 321 series offers the best service at high temperatures while also performing well against corrosion. These properties have made it a common choice for exhaust systems, the aerospace industry, and the chemical industry.

430

This magnetic grade provides a good surface appearance, which is why it is generally used in applications that call for a bright, polished finish.