400 Series Stainless Steel is a category of stainless steel that’s primarily characterized by its chromium content, with little to no nickel. The 400 series is known for its high heat resistance, strength, and its ability to hold a sharp edge.
400 Series Stainless Steel Sheets are sheets of stainless steel made from a 400 series alloy. They are magnetic and have good heat treatment capabilities, though their corrosion resistance isn’t as high as the 300 series.
The 400 series includes several types, including:
- 410: Basic martensitic grade which contains 11.5% chromium, offering both exceptional wear and corrosion resistance. It’s used in applications such as dental and surgical instruments, nozzles, valve parts, and more.
- 420: Known as ‘cutting grade’ martensitic steel, it offers higher carbon content than 410 and thus can achieve a high hardness.
- 430: Ferritic stainless steel, which contains 17% chromium, has modest amounts of heat and corrosion resistance, and is often used in automotive trim and appliance components.
The specific properties of a 400 Series Stainless Steel Sheet, such as its heat resistance, strength, and workability, will depend on the exact alloy (e.g., 410, 420, 430, etc.) from which the sheet is made.