The most machinable austenitic stainless steel. Excellent for high-volume production with superior surface finishes and minimal tool wear.
Sulfur addition creates excellent chip breaking and reduces tool wear. 60% faster than 304 stainless with better finishes.
Comparable to 304 in most environments. Suitable for atmospheric, freshwater, and mild chemical exposure.
Lower machining costs from reduced cycle times and extended tool life. Ideal for high-volume precision components.
Superior surface finish capability. Minimal secondary finishing required for most applications.
| Chromium (Cr) | 17.0 - 19.0 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8.0 - 10.0 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≥ 0.15 (free-machining) |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2.0 |
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.15 |
| Tensile Strength | 515-655 MPa |
| Yield Strength | 240-310 MPa |
| Elongation | 40-50% |
| Hardness | ≤ 217 HB |
| Machinability Rating | 78% (excellent) |
Marine environments, welded structures, or applications requiring 304-level corrosion resistance. Not suitable for food contact due to sulfur content.
Significantly better machinability than 304. Ideal for automatic screw machines and high-volume CNC production.
| Turning (Carbide) | 90-140 m/min |
| Milling (Carbide) | 80-120 m/min |
| Drilling | 30-50 m/min |
Fast production cycles for precision components with excellent surface finishes.