This austenitic chrome steel grade is thought for its free-machining traits, achieved by way of the addition of sulfur and selenium. These additions scale back friction throughout machining processes, resulting in improved chip breakage and longer device life. Typical purposes embrace shafts, screws, nuts, and bolts the place ease of fabrication is paramount. Its chemical composition sometimes contains chromium (17-19%), nickel (8-10%), and managed quantities of sulfur and selenium.
The improved machinability provided by this particular alloy reduces manufacturing prices and time. Whereas it maintains good corrosion resistance in gentle environments, its sulfur content material barely reduces its weldability and corrosion resistance in comparison with different austenitic grades. Developed as a modification of 304 chrome steel, this variant addresses the challenges related to machining the usual alloy. Its introduction marked a major development within the manufacturing of complicated elements requiring intricate machining operations.