AISI 321 stainless steel properties

Mar 25, 2025

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Element	Content Range	Key Role
Carbon (C)	≤0.08%	Low-carbon design reduces intergranular corrosion risk
Chromium (Cr)	17.0–19.0%	Forms a protective oxide layer for corrosion resistance
Nickel (Ni)	9.0–12.0%	Stabilizes the austenitic structure and enhances toughness
Titanium (Ti)	0.40–0.70%	Bonds with carbon to prevent carbide precipitation during welding
Others	Mn ≤2.0%, Si ≤1.0%, S ≤0.03%	Controls impurities for optimal machining

Oxidation Resistance: Suitable for long-term use up to 870°C and short-term exposure to 980°C.

Carburization Resistance: Titanium minimizes carbide formation, maintaining grain boundary strength at high temperatures.

Intergranular Corrosion: Titanium stabilizes carbon, preserving chromium's protective properties post-welding.

General Corrosion: Comparable to 304 stainless steel, outperforming ferritic grades like 430.

Condition	Tensile Strength	Yield Strength	Elongation	Hardness
Solution Annealed	480–690 MPa (70–100 ksi)	≥170 MPa (25 ksi)	≥40%	≤255 HB

Welding: No post-weld heat treatment required due to titanium's carbide-inhibiting effect.

Cold Forming: Good formability with moderate work-hardening.

Aerospace: Turbine exhaust systems, heat exchangers (AMS 5510/5645 specifications).

Energy & Petrochemical: High-temperature reactors, furnace components.

Food & Pharmaceutical: Welded equipment requiring corrosion resistance.

Grade	Key Distinction	Ideal Use Cases
304	No titanium; prone to corrosion after welding	Non-welded, non-critical environments
316	Contains molybdenum for pitting resistance	Chloride-rich or marine environments
430	Ferritic, nickel-free; lower cost but limited heat resistance	Decorative or low-temperature parts

GNEE supplies AMS 5510 specifications

GNEE supplies AMS 5510 specifications