Alloys & Finishes

Alloys

304 Stainless Steel
Type 304 is the most commonly used stainless steel alloy. It stands out with its strong formability and excellent weldability. It can be easily roll-formed or bent to suit specific needs making it a top choice for various applications. 304 offers reliable corrosion resistance and performs well in both chemical and atmospheric conditions.

Characteristics of alloy 304:
Machinability = Fair
Corrosion Resistance = Good
Weldability = Excellent
Bending/Forming = Good
Magnetic = No

Common applications of alloy 304:

• Best general-purpose stainless steel and is suitable for a broad range of applications.
• Food processing equipment, including containers and conveyors.
• Kitchen appliances, such as sinks, cookware, countertops, and backsplashes.
• Architectural elements like railings and panels.
• Chemical processing equipment, including tanks and piping.
• Medical instruments and devices.

309 Stainless Steel
Type 309 is characterized by its exceptional corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and reliable strength at both room and elevated temperatures.

Characteristics of alloy 309:
Machinability = Fair
Corrosion Resistance = Excellent (slightly less than 304)
Weldability = Excellent
Bending/Forming = Good
Magnetic = No

Common applications of alloy 309:

• High-temperature applications.
• Furnace components, including heating elements and radiant tubes.
• Heat exchangers.
• Oven linings.
• Aerospace components.
• Exhaust systems in industrial settings.

316 Stainless Steel
Type 316 stainless steel stands out with its superior corrosion resistance and elevated temperature strength, surpassing that of type 304. This high-corrosion resistance alloy is particularly effective against pitting-type corrosion. Our stainless steel sheet is dual-certified as 316/316L, a crucial feature for preventing corrosion after welding. It excels in welding, machining, grinding, and forming applications, making it a versatile choice for various industries. (Sometimes 316 is referenced as “marine grade” because of its excellent corrosion resistance (better than 304).)

Characteristics of alloy 316:
Machinability = Fair
Corrosion Resistance     = Excellent
Weldability = Excellent
Bending/Forming = Good
Magnetic = No

Common applications of alloy 316:

• Best for corrosion resistance and hygiene.
• Marine equipment, including boat hardware and propellers.
• Pharmaceutical processing equipment.
• Chemical industry equipment.
• Food processing equipment.
• Medical equipment, such as surgical instruments and orthopedic implants.

430 Stainless Steel
Type 430 stainless steel is a versatile alloy known for combining good corrosion resistance, heat and oxidation resistance up to 1500°F, and good mechanical properties. This alloy has magnetic properties and is commonly used in applications where appearance is not the primary concern. Notably, type 430 offers corrosion resistance when exposed to atmospheric and mildly corrosive environments. It finds its best fit in both interior and exterior applications where corrosion resistance takes precedence over strength.

Characteristics of alloy 430:
Machinability = Good
Corrosion Resistance = Good (less than 304 and 316)
Weldability = Fair
Bending/Forming = Good
Magnetic = No

Common applications of alloy 430:

• Best for corrosion resistance and hygiene.
• Marine equipment, including boat hardware and propellers.
• Pharmaceutical processing equipment.
• Chemical industry equipment.
• Food processing equipment.
• Medical equipment, such as surgical instruments and orthopedic implants.

 

Finishes

#4 Brushed Finish:
The #4 Polish finish is only available on 304 stainless steel sheet. It has a 150-180 grit grain in one direction and comes with a protective plastic film over the brushed/polished side. Please call 812-429-1634 if you need the grain to run in a particular direction, otherwise, we will choose for you.

#8 Mirror Finish:
The #8 reflective mirror finish is a polished, highly reflective finish with the grain marks polished out. It comes with a protective plastic film over the reflective side.

2B Mill Finish:
The 2B mill finish is a bright, cold rolled industrial finish with no grain pattern. A Mill Finish means that items come to exactly as they are finished at the mill. All materials can have some surface scratches and may have a dull finish.

2D Mill Finish:
The 2D mill finish is a dull, cold-rolled industrial finish with no grain pattern. It is rougher than a 2B Mill Finish. A Mill Finish means that items come to exactly as they are finished at the mill. All materials can have some surface scratches and may have a dull finish.