AISI 308L is the austenitic stainless steel known as, an alloy, which distinguishes itself as very resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for numerous industrial applications. Chromium, nickel, and a low carbon content of about 0.03% form its chemical composition with a headcount of around 18% and up to 10%. Such coating protects metallic items in aggressive environments, for instance, those with corrosive elements and high temperature fluctuations. AISI 308L is commonly used in an area which the welding ability and corrosion resistance are targets. A wide range of application sectors like chemical processing equipment, heat exchangers and furnace parts are the most common examples of this use. Its quality is controlled by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) with all grades continously tested and checked to confirm that is maintains uniform performance. Tables, chart and PDF outlining the relevant characteristics and specifications are in the appendix for reference purposes and for the purpose of giving help how to use it.
AISI 308L is a special steel austenitic in nature which is considered very well for corrosion resistance. As such, it is suitable for many usages in the fields of chemical industry, petrochemical industry and food processing. Its chemical constitution comprises approximately 18% chromium and 10% nickel with the low carbon content enhancing weldability and preventing sensitization as well. The metal alloy of this grade is characterised by superior oxidation and scaling resistance at temperatures above tempeature, as well as acceptable mechanical characteristics. AISI 308L is a representative of the austenitic stable class that is frequently used in welding applications for its low risk of intergranular corrosion and excellent performance in the aggressive environments.
Elements | Fe | Cr | Ni | Mn | Si | C | P | S |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Min (%) | 63.8 | 19.5 | 9.0 | 1.0 | 0.25 | - | - | - |
Max (%) | 70.5 | 22 | 11 | 2.5 | 0.6 | 0.080 | 0.030 | 0.030 |
Advantages:
Corrosion Resistance: Has good resistance to corrosion, in particular in acids and chloride environments.
Weldability: Featuring ease of joining allocates it for different production methods.
High Temperature Performance: Keeps its mechanical characteristics unchanged at raised temperatures and so is a good fit for high temperature applications.
Formability: Exhibits a good capability for formability, making it possible to mold and manufacture different shaped products.
Stability: Austenitic form remains even after exposure to extreme temperatures still ensures the long-term durability of the material.
Disadvantages:
Cost: Generally the expensive one among other stainless steels that include a higher nickel content.
Sensitization: Can be sensitized in some conditions due to the loss of passivity and reduced corrosion resistance.
Lower Strength: As opposed to other stainless steel alloys specifically AISI 308L may exhibit relatively lower strength properties.
Limited Hardness: Not suitable in the applications which have hung the demand for hardness or wear resistance.
Potential for Intergranular Corrosion: May be susceptible to intergranular corrosion in some specific conditions that are not treated or used wisely.
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AISI 308L stainless steel is used predominantly for welding, since it has a low percentage of carbon, which minimizes the probability of intergranular corrosion. It is applied mainly when joining stainless steel to carbon steel or low alloy steel through welding.
AISI 308L stainless steel has approximately 18–21% chromium, 9–11% nickel content and low carbon level of below 0. 03% carbon. In smaller concentrations it is also composed of manganese, silicon, phosphor, sulfur, and nitrogen.
AISI 308L has an average tensile strength of 550 MPa, a yield strength of 230 MPa, and an elongation of about 35%. As the heat treatment and manufacturing process may differ, these properties might also slightly differ.
In many cases, it is possible to use AISI 308L stainless steel and weld it without needing to perform passivation or annealing after welding. Its low carbon content also makes it resistant to sensitization and the resultant intergranular corrosion. But in some interventions, especially where high-temperature application is involved, post-weld annealing might be advised to enhance corrosion protection.