Understanding the Different Grades of the 400 Series Stainless Steel
Date : Sept 08, 2024
The 400 series of stainless steel are known for its high chromium containing
between 11-30% and a lower nickel level compared to the other series of
stainless steel. Most of these steels are ferritic and martensitic in nature and
hence, possess magnetic property and can further be strengthened with heat
treatment. The wear resistance and strength have further been made enhanced in
400 series.
Key 400 Grades of Stainless-Steel Wire Rod
Grade 409
- Characteristics: Grade 409 Stainless steel is a ferritic steel that
has an approximate of 10.5% to 11.75% of chromium content with other
alloying element including titanium. It is especially appreciated for its
corrosion resistance which is very effective for exhaust gas and atmospheric
conditions.
- Applications: These are extensively applied in automobiles in
mufflers, heat exchangers and, catalytic converters.
Grade 410
- Characteristics: This is a martensitic stainless steel which has a
chromium content of between 11.5% and 13.5%. It can be heat treated and
tempered and offers high tensile strength and moderate resistance to
corrosion.
- Applications: Used for manufacturing utensils, cutleries, surgical
instruments, pumps and valves.
Grade 420
- Characteristics: Grade 420 stainless steel has 12% to 14% chrome and
has the ability to become hard through heat treatment. It provides moderate
corrosion resistance in relatively mild conditions.
- Applications: Mainly applied in the manufacture of surgical
instruments, scissors and blades.
Grade 430
- Characteristics: This is a ferritic stainless steel that has from 16%
to 18% chromium content. It is none hard enable and has excellent corrosion
resistance and formability in addition to its high polish ability.
- Applications: This grade is used in kitchen appliances, automobile
interiors or trims, and uses in architectural designs.
Grade 440
- Characteristics: Grade 440 stainless steel comes in three types:
440A, 440B, and 440C which has higher carbon concentration than 440A. It can
be heat treated to very high hardness and strength in comparison to ordinary
steel.
- Applications: It is best suited for industries and equipment with
high rates of wear such as Bearings, blades and dental tools.
Properties and Benefits of 400 Series Stainless Steel Wire Rod
- Corrosion Resistance: The 400 series has the ability to offer good to
excellent resistance to corrosion hence suitable for a range of
environments.
- Strength and Hardness: These grades can be heat-treated in order to
develop high strength and hardness especially the martensitic classes.
- Magnetic Properties: The 400 series is magnetic which may be a
significant characteristic in particular uses, unlike the 300 series.
- Cost-Effective: Frequently, the 400 series is slightly more
economical than the 300 series because it contains less nickel in its
composition.
Conclusion
The 400 series of stainless-steel wire rods are available in various different
grades that possess individual properties and characteristics. It is important
to understand these differences in order to choose the right material for your
specific case. If you require high strength, excellent corrosion resistance or
even special magnetic properties, series 400 grade offers an ideal solution. Due
to the continuing demand of industries that require high-performance materials,
the use of 400 series is still beneficial and worthy of investment.
