A 317L stainless steel tube is made with low carbon austenitic molybdenum grade stainless steel, which provides better corrosion resistance than other grades of stainless steel. It is especially well-suited for high-temperature applications since it can maintain its strength and durability at varying temperature degrees. The scope for weldability is quite prevalent, making it ideal for welding, forming, and machining.
Molybdenum-grade steel tubes have a high percentage of molybdenum added to the alloy, typically between 2 to 3%. This gives them improved corrosion resistance and temperature resistance, as well as greater strength and hardness than other grades of stainless steel.
Molybdenum grades with low carbon content are beneficial because they offer increased corrosion resistance and improved strength-to-weight ratios compared to other grades of stainless steel. Low carbon in molybdenum-grade steel helps to enhance corrosion resistance by reducing the number of chromium carbides. It also increases the toughness, making it easier to shape without breaking. The tendency for parts to crack or become brittle during stress is reduced thanks to low carbon.
The characteristics of 317L Stainless Steel
These special stainless steel tubes are utilized for their unique properties, which are highlighted below:
- Resistance to corrosion
317L stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance due to its higher chromium content, which helps to form a protective oxide layer on the surface. This oxide layer is highly resistant to corrosion by most acids and bases, as well as other chemicals. The low carbon content also helps to increase corrosion resistance, making it an ideal choice for many applications where protection from corrosion is important.
- Resistance to heat
This kind of stainless steel has excellent heat resistance, making it ideal for applications requiring high-temperature performance. It can withstand temperatures up to 982°C (1800°F) without being damaged or losing its strength or durability. Therefore, it is well-suited for use in environments that require heat resistance and protection from corrosion, such as chemical processing, semiconductor processing, and aerospace engineering.
- Tough formability
Due to its higher level of hardness and chromium content, this steel is more difficult to machine than other grades of stainless steel. It is more resistant to cutting tools than other grades, which can make it more difficult to form or shape into different shapes. However, it is still possible to machine 317L stainless steel with the right tooling and machining techniques.
- Useful for welding
These stainless steel tubes are an excellent choice for welding applications due to the aforementioned properties. It is easy to form and weld without needing to use any special techniques or equipment. Additionally, its low carbon content helps reduce the risk of weld cracking and other types of corrosion that can occur during welding. The strength and durability are maintained, making it an ideal choice for high-temperature welding applications.
317L stainless steel tubes are used in a wide range of industries due to their superior corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and weldability. They are often preferred for applications requiring a combination of these three qualities, such as chemical processing, semiconductor processing, medical equipment, automotive exhaust systems, and aerospace engineering.