CNC Machining in Stainless Steel

Stainless Steel is a versatile and durable material known for its corrosion resistance, strength, and aesthetic appeal.

Advantages of Stainless Steel

Stainless Steel is a corrosion-resistant alloy. Its resistance to rust and staining makes it highly versatile for applications in numerous industries, such as construction, kitchenware, medical equipment, and aerospace.

Key Features

High Corrosion Resistance

High Tensile Strength and Durability

Easy to Process

Recyclability

Available Stainless Steel Specifications

The following table shows common stainless steel alloys. If you have any other alloy requirements, please contact us.

Stainless Steel 303

Tensile Strength

Elongation at Break

Hardness

Density

89,900 PSI

50%

Rockwell B95

0.289 lb/in³
(8.00 g/cm³)

Stainless Steel 304

Tensile Strength

Elongation at Break

Hardness

Density

73,200 PSI

70%

Rockwell B82

0.289 lb/in³
(8.00 g/cm³)

Stainless Steel 316/316L

Tensile Strength

Elongation at Break

Hardness

Density

84,000 PSI

50%

Rockwell B95

0.289 lb/in³
(7.99 g/cm³)

Stainless Steel 410

Tensile Strength

Elongation at Break

Hardness

Density

221,000 PSI

14.5%

Rockwell B85

0.282 lb/in³
(7.80 g/cm³)

Stainless Steel 416

Tensile Strength

Elongation at Break

Hardness

Density

107,000 – 190,000 PSI

9-20%

Rockwell B80

0.282 lb/in³
(7.80 g/cm³)

Stainless Steel 420

Tensile Strength

Elongation at Break

Hardness

Density

24,700 – 264,000 PSI

9-36%

Rockwell B88

0.282 lb/in³
(7.80 g/cm³)

Stainless Steel 430

Tensile Strength

Elongation at Break

Hardness

Density

70,100 PSI

25%

Rockwell B89

0.280 lb/in³
(7.74 g/cm³)

Stainless Steel 440C

Tensile Strength

Elongation at Break

Hardness

Density

254,000 PSI

2-14%

Rockwell C20

0.282 lb/in³
(7.80 g/cm³)

Stainless Steel 630 (17-4PH) Solution

Tensile Strength

Elongation at Break

Hardness

Density

160,000 PSI

Rockwell C35

0.281 lb/in³
(7.78 g/cm³)

Stainless Steel 630 (17-4PH) H900

Tensile Strength

Elongation at Break

Hardness

Density

197,000 – 203,000 PSI

10-12%

Rockwell C38 – C42

0.280 lb/in³
(7.75 g/cm³)

Stainless Steel 630 (17-4PH) H1150

Tensile Strength

Elongation at Break

Hardness

Density

168,000 – 197,000 PSI

11-13%

Rockwell C28 – C38

0.280 lb/in³
(7.75 g/cm³)

Stainless Steel Surface Finishes

The following table shows common surface finishes for stainless steel.

Bead Blast

Black Oxide

Electropolish

Heat Treat

Electroless Nickel Plating

Passivate

Polishing

Zinc Plating

Gold Plating

Silver Plating

Powder Coating

Brushing

Stainless Steel FAQs

Does machining stainless steel present challenges?

Undoubtedly, CNC machining with stainless steels presents challenges, as they rank among the most demanding metals to work with. Unlike certain metals that wear down during machining, stainless steel tends to increase in hardness over time. The heightened heat generated during machining further compounds these challenges, often leading to premature tool failure. Consequently, attaining optimal speeds and feeds, coupled with employing suitable tooling, becomes paramount for achieving successful machining outcomes with stainless steel.
Which steel grade is most suitable for machining?

In the realm of machining, seven steel grades stand out for their exceptional suitability, each carefully selected to meet the specific requirements of the parts at hand. Among these grades, 1018 Steel stands out for its high machinability and weldability, making it an ideal choice for applications prioritizing ease of machining over high strength. Meanwhile, 4140 Alloy Steel has superior strength and hardness compared to carbon steel, offering exceptional impact resistance, fatigue endurance, and torsional strength. 1045 Carbon Steel, stronger than low carbon steel, remains easily machinable, adding versatility to machining operations. Additionally, 4130 Alloy Steel boasts improved weldability owing to its slightly lower carbon content, further enhancing its appeal for machining tasks. Lastly, 4340 Alloy Steel, a medium-carbon steel, proves highly effective in applications subjected to extreme impact, heat, and wear, showcasing its durability and versatility in demanding environments.
Which stainless steel is optimal for CNC machining?

When it comes to CNC machining, four stainless steel grades stand out for their suitability and diverse applications. 430F Grade Stainless Steel is distinguished by its enhanced machinability due to increased sulfur content. In the 300 Series Family, 303 Stainless Steel stands out with its rapid machining capabilities and robust corrosion resistance, making it a preferred choice for various components across industries. Nitronic 60 is known for its exceptional wear and corrosion resistance, boasting a yield strength nearly double that of stainless steel 304. Lastly, 17-4 PH Stainless Steel offers high corrosion resistance and strength, enduring even in elevated temperatures. Its magnetic properties and heat-treatability further enhance its versatility.
What are the characteristics of Nitronic 60 material?

The material properties of Nitronic 60 include remarkable wear and corrosion resistance, with a yield strength nearly double that of SS 304 and SS 316. It also exhibits exceptional resistance to oxidation.
What are the material characteristics of the stainless steel within the 400 series family?

Less prevalent than their austenitic counterparts, the 400 series stainless steels belong to the martensitic family. Characterized by their higher carbon content, martensitic steels boast exceptional strength and toughness but are more susceptible to corrosion in certain environments. They have the capability to undergo heat treatment, resulting in a significant increase in hardness, and often exhibit magnetic properties.
What are the material characteristics of the stainless steel in the 300 series family?

Belonging to the austenitic stainless steel family, the 300 series, which includes grades like 303 and 304, is recognized for its distinctive crystalline structure. These grades are extensively manufactured worldwide, renowned for their exceptional corrosion resistance and robust strength across diverse temperature ranges. Typically impervious to heat treatment, they can be cold worked and often exhibit non-magnetic properties.