Austenitic stainless steels are amongst the most popular and most widely used of the stainless steel family. They have a chromium content of around 17% and comprise nickel and possibly other additives such as molybdenum, titanium or niobium. It is the nickel content which enables the austenitic structure that supports corrosion resistance. In fact, the absence of a second phase, such as strain induced martensite or ferrite promotes the corrosion resistance. Austenitic stainless steel 1.4301, X5CrNi18-8, is very widely used because of its excellent intercrystalline corrosion resistance, very good cold deformability, good deep drawing capability and its good aptitude for welding. The 1.4301, X5CrNi18-8, preserves its excellent corrosion resistance up to 300°C but can also be used at very low temperatures for cryogenic applications. In the soft temper, alloy 1.4301, X5CrNi18-8, is practically non-magnetic. The work hardening effect during cold deformation is rather weak, For example, it does not reach the spring properties of stainless steel 1.4310, X10CrNi18-8. Lamineries MATTHEY can produce the 1.4301, X5CrNi18-8, in various tempers ranging from dead soft to extra hard rolled.

Typical uses
Thanks to its corrosion resistance, the 1.4301 is widely used in the chemical industry, cutlery, watches and clocks, medical devices, appliances etc. The 1.4301, X5CrNi18-10, as delivered by Lamineries MATTHEY SA is frequently used to manufacture parts such as spring components, pressure membranes, various watch components, deep drawn parts, connectors etc