Difference between 300 and 400 Series Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is divided into five categories, each of which represents a different quality. Each class combines chemical composition with distinct mechanical qualities. 300 series stainless steel is austenitic, while 400 series stainless steel is ferritic with martensitic.
Stainless Steel 300 Series:
304, 309, 310, 316, 317, 318, 321, 330, 347 are the nine alloys that make up the 300 series stainless steel. 304 and 316 are the most commonly used stainless steel alloys in the 300 series. The other alloys in the 300 family are utilised in more specialised situations. 304 stainless steel is a chromium-nickel alloy that comprises 18% chromium and 8% nickel. 316 stainless steel is a chromium-nickel-molybdenum alloy that comprises 16 percent chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum.
Stainless Steel 400 Series:
430 stainless steel is usually referred to as 400 series stainless steel since it is the most regularly used 400 series alloy. This stainless steel contains an 11 percent chromium concentration and a 1% manganese content. It’s also worth mentioning that the carbon content of stainless steel in the 400 series is higher than that of stainless steel in the 300 series. This makes these alloys stronger and more durable when used correctly.
Differences between 300 and 400 series of stainless steel
The stainless steel 300 and 400 series are divided into two groups, each with its own set of similarities and differences. The selection of an appropriate alloy for long-term applications is critical. The differences between the grades point to the best alloy to utilise. The 300 series has a face-centred-cubicle microstructure, whereas the 400 series has a body-centred-cubicle microstructure. The 400 series grades are magnetic, but the 300 series are not. Heat can be used to harden the 400 series, but not the 300 series. The chemical makeup is the most important distinction between the 300 and 400 series. Chromium, nickel, and molybdenum are commonly found in stainless steel grades in the 300 series.
The primary makeup of stainless steel grades of the Grade 400 series is chromium and manganese. The chromium percentage looks to be 18-30% for the 300 series and 11-12% for the 400 series, whereas the carbon content appears to be higher in the 400 series. The 300 Series has better corrosion resistance than the 400 Series. The 300 series’ corrosion resistance is improved by nickel and chromium. Tensile and yield strength are comparable in the 300 and 400 series. The grades in the 300 Series are extremely ductile. The 400 series, on the other hand, has a larger carbon content and is harder than the 300 series. The grades in the 400 series are more durable. The aerospace, maritime, automation, and food and beverage industries all employ 300 series grades. The 400 series grades are commonly found in agricultural equipment, motor shafts, and turbines, among other applications.
The absence of nickel in the 400 series’ basic components makes it less expensive than the 300 series. To summarise, the proper grade is determined by the application. If corrosion resistance is required, the 300 series grades are a solid alternative. When strength and mechanical qualities are required, the 400 series grades are an excellent choice.