These low-maintenance materials are often used in applications where corrosion resistance is critical. Stainless steels have a higher resistance to rust in many natural and man-made environments; however, it is important to use the appropriate grade of steel regarding your requirements for strength, hardness, and workability.

STAINLESS STEEL COMPARISON CHART Material Tensile Strength (psi) Yield Strength (psi) Hardness* Corrosion Resistance Formability Machinability Weldability Type 303 90,000 35,000 160 (BHN) Fair Not Recommended Excellent Not Recommended Type 304 85,000 35,000 160 (BHN) Good Excellent Good Good Type 316 81,900 30,000 160 (BHN) Excellent Excellent Good Good Type 416 75,000 40,000 155 (BHN) Poor Not Recommended Excellent Not Recommended Type 440C 110,000 65,000 230 (BHN) Poor Poor Fair Poor Type 17-4 PH 150,000 110,000 Max. 38 (Rc) Good Good Fair Good (*) Typical levels @ 1" dia.