Grade 303 is a type of stainless steel alloy that falls into the austenitic category. Stainless steel 303 hexagonal and square bars are popular materials used in various applications due to their excellent machinability and corrosion resistance. Here are some key points to know about these bars.
Stainless Steel 303 Hexagonal Bars
⦁ 303 stainless steel hexagonal bars are made of chromium-nickel stainless steel with added sulfur and phosphorus to improve machinability and non-seizing properties.
⦁ They are corrosion-resistant to atmospheric elements and many chemicals.
⦁ The sulfur component in 303 stainless steel hexagonal bars helps improve turning breakup while simultaneously reducing cutting tool drag.
Stainless Steel 303 Square Bars
⦁ 303 stainless steel square bars can resist scaling at up to 871°C[4].
⦁ Compared to conventional stainless steel square bars, the sulfur component helps improve turning breakup and reduce cutting tool drag.
⦁ Square bars made with 303 stainless steel are useful for parts that require sufficient corrosion resistance and need to be machined, ground, or polished.
Characteristics of Grade 303 Hexagonal and Square Bars
Corrosion Resistance:
Grade 303 stainless steel offers excellent resistance to many corrosive environments, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Machinability:
This grade is renowned for its superior machinability, making it a preferred choice for parts that require precision machining.
Good Weldability:
Grade 303 Bright Bars can be welded using conventional methods, allowing for flexibility in manufacturing processes.
Excellent Polishing Properties:
The bright finish of these bars makes them ideal for applications where aesthetics matter.
Common Applications:
Machined Components:
Due to its exceptional machinability, Grade 303 is often used in the production of intricate machined parts and components.
Fasteners:
It's a preferred material for screws, bolts, and nuts.
Shafts and Valves:
Grade 303 Bright Bars are suitable for applications where corrosion resistance and durability are crucial.
Architectural Use:
Thanks to its attractive appearance, this material is also utilized in architectural designs.
Manufacturing Process of Stainless Steel 303 Hexagonal and Square bars
Stainless steel 303 Hexagonal and Square bars are manufactured using various processes, including hot rolling, heat treatment, pickling, and cold drawing. The manufacturing process involves the following steps:
Melting:
The raw materials, such as scrap, ferroalloys, and fluxes, are melted in an electric arc furnace or an induction furnace. The molten metal is then refined and deoxidized to remove impurities and adjust the chemical composition. The sulfur content is increased to about 0.15% to enhance the machinability of the grade.
Casting:
The refined molten metal is cast into the required size ingots or billets by using a continuous casting machine or a semi-continuous casting method. The ingots or billets are then cooled and solidified.
Hot rolling:
The ingots or billets are reheated to a high temperature and then hot rolled into hexagonal or square bars. The hot working process reduces the cross-sectional area and increases the strength of the bars.
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