303 stainless steel spring wire

303 stainless steel spring wire is a free-machining stainless steel specifically engineered for improved machinability. This nonmagnetic austenitic stainless steel is not hardenable through heat treatment. The addition of sulfur enhances its free-machining characteristics while retaining the good mechanical and corrosion-resistant properties found in lower-sulfur grades. Additionally, this alloy exhibits non-galling properties, making the disassembly of parts easier and reducing the risk of scratching or galling in moving components.

Applications

303 stainless steel spring wire is suitable for a variety of applications, including:

• Medical Instruments
• Shafts
• Valves
• Fittings
• Intricate parts that require precise machining

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: 433.0 ohm-cir-mil/ft at 70°F
• Specific Heat: 0.12 BTU/lb-°F (0.5 J/g-°C) from 32-212°F (0-100°C)
• Thermal Conductivity: 112 BTU-in/hr-ft²-°F (16.20 W/m•K) at 212°F (100°C)
• Mean Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 9.3 µin/in-°F (16.7 µm/m-°C) from 68-392°F (20-200°C)
• Modulus of Elasticity: 28 x 10³ KSI (193 x 10³ MPa) in tension
• Melting Range: 2550-2590°F (1400-1420°C)

Our 303 stainless steel spring wire combines excellent machinability with outstanding mechanical properties, making it a top choice for various industrial applications.