Buckle Up as we take a deep dive into Stainless Steel grade 302, in the first edition of our “Stainless Steel Mini Series”… Are You Ready?!
302 Stainless Steel is a type of austenitic stainless steel that is non-magnetic. It is a slightly higher carbon version of 304, often found in strip and wire forms. It is a tough, ductile grade that demonstrates comparable corrosion resistance, is non-magnetic, and cannot be hardened by heat treatment. 302 is usually used in its annealed condition and has a high ease of fabrication and formability.
With its higher carbon content as compared to 304 stainless steel, 302 has more strength and hardness than 304 stainless steel, but this also makes it more susceptible to carbide precipitation during welding. Post weld annealing dissolves the chromium carbide and is recommended for maximum resistance to intergranular attack.
Other Corrosion Resistance Facts:
- 302 provides useful resistance to corrosion on a wide range of moderately oxidizing to moderately reducing environments.
- The 18 -19% of chromium which this alloy contains provides resistance to oxidizing environments such as dilute nitric acid.
- Resistant to moderately aggressive organic acids such as acetic, and reducing acids such as phosphoric.
Hot Working:
- Uniform heating to 2100oF will allow this allow to be forged, upset and headed successfully
- It is not recommended to work below 1700oF
Cold Working:
- Will dramatically increase the hardness of this material; however, it is quite ductile and may readily be drawn, spun and upset
- Causes alloy 302 to become magnetic
- Post-fabrication annealing is necessary to retain maximum corrosion resistance and a non-magnetic condition
Applications:
Although many applications have shifted to 304 and 304L due to advances in melting technology, availability, and cost, Alloy 302 is still used in a variety of industries. Some examples include:
- Stamping
- Spinning
- Wire forming
- Formed into all types of washers, springs, screens, and cables
- Food and beverage industry
- Pressure containing applications
- Sanitary or cryogenic applications
Some examples of products that are partially or completely constructed of 302 include:
- Blenders
- Counters
- Dish racks
- Dishwashers
- Refrigerators
- Washing machines
Overall, 302 stainless steel is a versatile and reliable material that is used in a wide variety of applications. It is a good choice for applications where strength and hardness are important, and where corrosion resistance is not a major concern.
Looking for 302 Stainless Steel Wire? The experts at ISW can help! We carry both soap and nickel coated 302 wire; ASTM A-313. Get a quote from us fast by emailing us at quotes@industeel.com or fill out the quote form here.
