Among the steel types, austenitic steels are the most popular and are used most. Apart from a chromium content of 17 %, they contain nickel and perhaps molybdenum, titanium or niobium additives. The nickel content enables the austenitic structure that supports corrosion resistance. The missing second phase - e.g. strain incluced martensite or ferrite - promotes corrosion resistance. Grade 1.4435 is widely used in the chemical industry, it can often be found on the market with the supplement "BN2" and its relevant regulations. The significant presence of molybdenum in this grade enhances the resistance to chlorides, sulphuric acid and organic acids.This is the reason why stainless steel 1.4435, 316L, X2CrNiMo18-14-3 is often the best choice for applications demanding excellent corrosion resistance. In this alloy, the addition of certain alloging elements, such as nickel, the formation of delta-ferrite in the microstructure is reduced or completely eliminated. The absence of ferrite kes this steel non magnetic in soft temper, however, it may become magnetic with increasing cold working. Due to the higher molybdenum content, this grade provides a better pitting resistance than grade 1.4404. This steel can easily be welded by any conventional joining technique, except the oxyacetylene torch. Depending on the welding conditions, some residual ferrite may form along the welding line. There is no need for any post-weld heat treatment, when the alloy was welded in an annealed condition.

Typical uses
Frequently used to manufacture pressure gauges, various watch components, membranes for the chemical industry. Used for parts requiring a prolonged skin contact, and for parts who need to resist to corrosion (pitting).