321 Stainless Steel Plate

321 Stainless Steel Plate solves the paradox of high-temperature corrosion resistance and post-weld brittleness. Its titanium-stabilized chemistry (Ti ≥5xC content) traps carbon to prevent chromium carbide formation during thermal cycling (425–860°C range). Proven in jet engine exhausts, industrial kilns, and nuclear reactor piping, 321 outperforms 304H in cyclic oxidation while avoiding 347's costly niobium premium.

4 Breakthrough Advantages

Sensitization Shield

Eliminates intergranular corrosion risk after prolonged 550–800°C exposure (per ASTM A262 Practice E).

Thermal Agility

Maintains 620 MPa tensile strength at 600°C (vs. 304H's 480 MPa drop).

Acid Warfare Ready

Resists nitric acid (up to 20% @ 50°C) and weak sulfuric acid environments.

Fabrication Flexibility

Cold-rollable to 0.5mm thin sheets without edge cracking.

Critical Performance Benchmarks

Industry-Specific Mastery

1. Aerospace & Defense

Afterburner components | Rocket engine heat shields

2. Energy Generation

Superheater tube supports | Geothermal brine heat exchangers

3. Automotive Thermal Systems

Turbocharger housings | EGR cooler cores

4. Chemical Processing

Nitric acid concentrators | Urea reactor liners

Global Validation

Boeing Aerostructures: "321 plates reduced turbine casing warpage by 58% vs. 347."

German Solar Furnace Co.: "Zero sensitization after 7 years at 750°C cyclic duty."

Shanghai Petrochemical: "Cut nitric acid tank replacements from 3 to 1 per decade."

Fabrication Insights

Q: Optimal welding method for thin-gauge 321?

A: Pulsed TIG with ER321 filler-keep interpass temp <150°C to preserve titanium's carbon-trapping.

Q: Max operating temperature for continuous service?

A: 900°C intermittent | 675°C continuous (with <0.1mm/year scaling).

Q: Surface prep for nitric acid resistance?

A: Pickling with HNO3/HF mix + passivation at 25% nitric acid, 60°C.

Common Surfaces

Stainless Steel Standards Comparison Table