321 stainless steel plate specification

321 stainless steel plate is a type of austenitic stainless steel that is stabilized with titanium. 321 stainless steel plate is an excellent choice for high-temperature applications and is commonly used in the aerospace industry. 

Chemical Composition

The chemical composition of 321 stainless steel plate is as follows:

- Carbon: 0.08% max
- Chromium: 17.00 – 19.00%
- Nickel: 9.00 – 12.00%
- Manganese: 2.00% max
- Phosphorus: 0.045% max
- Sulfur: 0.03% max
- Silicon: 0.75% max
- Titanium: 5 x (C+N) min – 0.70% max

Mechanical Properties

The mechanical properties of 321 stainless steel plate depend on the tempering temperature and the duration of the treatment. The following table shows the typical mechanical properties of 321 stainless steel plate in the annealed condition:

- Tensile Strength: 75 ksi
- Yield Strength: 30 ksi
- Elongation: 40%
- Hardness: 95 HRB

Physical Properties

The physical properties of 321 stainless steel plate are as follows:

- Density: 0.29 lb/in³ (7.93 g/cm³)
- Specific Heat: 0.12 BTU/lb-°F (0.50 J/g-°C)
- Thermal Conductivity: 14.6 BTU/hr-ft-°F (25.3 W/m-°C)
- Electrical Conductivity: 28% IACS
- Modulus of Elasticity: 28 x 10³ ksi (193 GPa)
- Melting Range: 2500 – 2590°F (1371 – 1421°C)

Corrosion Resistance

321 stainless steel plate has excellent corrosion resistance properties. It is resistant to intergranular corrosion, stress corrosion cracking, and pitting. It is also resistant to a wide range of chemicals such as acids, alkalies, and organic compounds. 321 stainless steel plate is often used in applications where corrosion resistance is critical, such as in the chemical and petrochemical industries.

Fabrication

321 stainless steel plate is easy to fabricate and weld. It can be machined using standard techniques used for austenitic stainless steels. However, it has a tendency to work harden quickly, and carbide tooling should be used for best results. The recommended temperature range for forging and hot-working 321 stainless steel is 2000 – 2200°F (1093 – 1204°C). It is also recommended to use low speeds and heavy cuts when machining 321 stainless steel.

Applications

321 stainless steel plate is often used in high-temperature applications where its high-temperature strength, corrosion resistance, and oxidation resistance are critical. It is commonly used in the following industries:

- Aerospace: 321 stainless steel plate is used in aircraft exhaust systems, turbine engines, and other high-temperature applications.
- Chemical and Petrochemical: 321 stainless steel plate is used in chemical and petrochemical processing equipment, such as reactors, heat exchangers, and tanks.
- Food Processing: 321 stainless steel plate is used in food processing equipment, such as industrial ovens, baking trays, and cooking surfaces.
- Oil and Gas: 321 stainless steel plate is used in oil and gas production equipment, such as wellhead components, valves, and manifolds.