303 Stainless Steel Sheet
303 Stainless Steel Sheet Supplier in China
Alloy 303 – Free Machining Austenitic Stainless Steel
Alloy 303 is a non-magnetic, austenitic stainless steel that cannot be hardened by heat treatment. It is the free-machining modification of the standard 18% chromium / 8% nickel stainless steel (Alloy 304). Specially developed to offer enhanced machinability while maintaining good mechanical strength and corrosion resistance, Alloy 303 is the most easily machinable austenitic stainless steel due to the presence of sulfur in its composition.
While the sulfur addition significantly improves machinability, it slightly reduces both corrosion resistance and toughness compared to Alloy 304. Even so, Alloy 303 still delivers excellent toughness, and its corrosion resistance is superior to that of Alloy 416 and other free-machining grades.
Alloy 303 performs well in mildly corrosive environments, but for applications requiring optimal corrosion resistance, a chemical surface treatment is recommended to remove sulfides from the final surface.
✅ Key Features:
Excellent machinability – ideal for high-speed machining
Good mechanical properties with adequate corrosion resistance
Superior toughness compared to free-machining martensitic grades
Best suited for applications where machining efficiency is a priority
303 Stainless Steel Sheet Characteristics
Our 303 stainless steel sheet exhibits excellent mechanical properties, toughness, formability, and corrosion resistance without the risk of seizing or galling. And it also possesses non-magnetic properties and performs well in various weather conditions.
Applications for 303 Stainless Steel Sheet
303 stainless steel sheet finds applications in various industries, including aerospace, food and beverage, machinery, architecture, chemicals, and cryogenics. It is commonly used in aircraft fittings, such as shafts, nuts, bolts, and gears. Thanks to its high machinability, 303 stainless steel sheet is ideal for producing valves, fittings, bushings, and valve trims.
303 Stainless Steel Sheet Fabrication Options
We offer strict and professional processing options for 303 stainless steel sheet to meet the requirements of different projects. These options include plasma cutting, plate saw cutting, laser cutting, waterjet cutting, and machining.
Does stainless steel 303 rust?
Stainless steel 303 can rust under certain conditions, especially in environments containing chloride. However, passivation can help enhance its corrosion resistance. It is important to consider the specific environment and consult with experts if necessary.
What is the difference between 303 stainless steel and 304 vs 316?
The main differences are as follows：
– 303 stainless steel: Highly machinable, moderate corrosion resistance. Used for extensive machining applications.
– 304 stainless steel: Good general-purpose corrosion resistance, commonly used in various industries.
– 316 stainless steel: Superior corrosion resistance, especially in chloride-rich environments. Used in marine and chemical applications.
