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When nickel is added to stainless steel in sufficient amounts the crystal structure changes to "austenite". The basic composition of austenitic stainless steels is 18% chromium and 8% nickel. Austenitic grades are the most commonly used stainless steels accounting for more than 70% of production (type 304 is the most commonly specified grade by far).

Basic properties

  • Excellent corrosion resistance
  • Excellent weldability (all processes)
  • Excellent formability, fabricability and ductility
  • Excellent cleanability, and hygiene characteristics
  • Eood high and excellent low temperature properties
  • Non magnetic (if annealed)
  • Hardenable by cold work only

Common uses

  • Computer keyboard key springs (301)
  • Kitchen sinks (304D)
  • Food processing equipment
  • Architectural applications
  • Chemical plant and equipment

Table: Common austenitic stainless steel grades and their applications

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