303 stainless steel soft wire

Alloy 303 is a free-machining stainless steel specifically engineered for enhanced machinability. This nonmagnetic austenitic stainless steel is not hardenable through heat treatment. The addition of sulfur imparts its free-machining properties while retaining the favorable mechanical and corrosion resistance characteristics found in lower-sulfur grades. Notably, this alloy has non-galling properties, making the disassembly of parts straightforward and minimizing the risk of scratching or galling in moving components.

Applications of 303 Stainless Steel

303 stainless steel is widely utilized in various applications, including:

• Medical instruments
• Shafts
• Valves
• Fittings
• Intricate parts that require machining

This versatility makes 303 stainless steel soft wire an excellent choice for components demanding precision and reliability.

Chemistry Typical

• Carbon: 0.12 max
• Phosphorus: 0.20 max
• Sulfur: 0.150 min
• Silicon: 1.00 max
• Nickel: 8.00-10.00
• Chromium: 17.00-19.00
• Manganese: 2.00 max
• Iron: Balance

Physical Properties

• Density: 0.283 lb/in³ (8.00 g/cm³)
• Electrical Resistivity at 70°F: 433.0 ohm-cir-mil/ft
• Specific Heat (32-212°F): 0.12 BTU/lb-°F (0.5 J/g-°C)
• Thermal Conductivity at 212°F: 112 BTU-in/hr-ft²-°F (16.20 W/m•K)
• Mean Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (68-392°F): 9.3 µin/in-°F (16.7 µm/m-°C)
• Modulus of Elasticity: 28 x 10³ KSI (193 x 10³ MPa) in tension
• Melting Range: 2550-2590°F (1400-1420°C)

Mechanical Properties at Room Temperature

Annealed Typical Properties

• Ultimate Tensile Strength: 75 KSI min (517 MPa min)
• Yield Strength: 25 KSI min (172 MPa min)
• Elongation: 35% min

The mechanical properties and composition of 303 stainless steel soft wire make it a top choice for applications where performance and ease of machining are paramount.