SS 317L / UNS S31703 / W.NR. 1.4438
Stainless Steel 317L
Stainless Steel 317L (also known as Alloy 317L and SS 317L), is a highly versatile and durable austenitic stainless steel that offers exceptional corrosion resistance. The combination of chromium, nickel, and molybdenum present in 317L stainless steel provides improved resistance against chloride pitting and general corrosion compared to other popular grades such as 304/304L and 316/316L.
One of the key features of Stainless Steel 317L is its low carbon content, which helps to maintain the mechanical properties of 317 straight grade. Additionally, through the controlled addition of nitrogen, 317L is able to meet the high standards of mechanical properties while preserving its low carbon content.
Industries and Applications
Stainless Steel 317L is a highly versatile and durable austenitic stainless steel that is widely used in various industries for its exceptional performance and durability. The unique combination of chromium, nickel, and molybdenum in 317L stainless steel provides improved resistance against chloride pitting and general corrosion compared to other popular grades such as 304/304L and 316/316L.
The following are some of the industries and applications that extensively use Stainless Steel 317L:
Chemical processing: SS 317L is highly resistant to corrosion and is widely used in chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, and petrochemical industries due to its ability to withstand harsh chemicals and corrosive environments.
Food and Beverage: This alloy is commonly used in the food and beverage industry for its non-reactive nature and ability to maintain its mechanical properties even in harsh environments.
Oil and Gas: The high resistance to corrosion and ability to maintain its mechanical properties make SS 317L an ideal choice for use in the oil and gas industry, especially in offshore platforms and pipelines.
Power Generation: This alloy is also used in power generation plants, as it can withstand high temperatures and corrosive environments.
Pulp and Paper: SS 317L is commonly used in the pulp and paper industry, as it offers excellent resistance to corrosion and is highly durable.
Resistance to Corrosion
Stainless Steel 317L is an incredibly strong and corrosion-resistant austenitic stainless steel. Its distinctive blend of chromium, nickel, and molybdenum offers exceptional protection against various forms of corrosion, making it an excellent option for numerous industrial and commercial uses.
A key characteristic of SS 317L is its enhanced resistance to chloride pitting corrosion. While this type of corrosion is prevalent in stainless steels, the incorporation of molybdenum in 317L significantly improves its resistance. As a result, it is a suitable choice for environments with high chloride exposure, such as chemical processing, oil and gas operations, and offshore platforms.
Furthermore, Stainless Steel 317L exhibits excellent general corrosion resistance, which can be attributed to the high chromium content in the alloy. This element forms a protective oxide layer, preventing the steel from rusting. Consequently, 317L is an ideal option for applications subjected to harsh conditions, including those in the food and beverage, pulp and paper, and power generation industries.
Fabrication and Heat Treatment
The fabrication and heat treatment of Stainless Steel 317L play a crucial role in determining its properties and performance.
Fabrication of SS 317L can be carried out using standard fabrication methods, such as welding, cutting, bending, and forming. However, due to its high resistance to corrosion, it is recommended to use specialized welding techniques, such as gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) or gas metal arc welding (GMAW), to avoid contamination.
Heat treatment of Stainless Steel 317L is an important process that helps to improve its mechanical properties, such as toughness and ductility. This is typically achieved through a process called solution annealing, where the alloy is heated to a temperature above its critical temperature and then slowly cooled. This process helps to dissolve any unwanted carbides and intermetallics that may have formed during fabrication, resulting in improved mechanical properties.
Stainless Steel 317L – Applicable Specifications
| Form | ASTM | ASME | Other |
|---|---|---|---|
Stainless Steel 317L Plate & Sheet |
A240 | SA240 | – |
Stainless Steel 317L Bar & Rod |
A276 | SA276 | – |
Stainless Steel 317L Pipe & Tube |
A312 | SA312 | – |
Stainless Steel 317L Fittings |
A403 | SA403 | – |
Stainless Steel 317L Forgings |
A182 | SA182 | – |
Stainless Steel 317L Wire |
A580 | N/A | – |
Common Trade Names
Stainless Steel 317L is also commonly referred to as Alloy 317L and SS 317L. Other trade names for this alloy include L grades, 18-15-3, UNS S31703, and UNS S31726.
Key Properties
(in annealed condition)
| Property | SS 317L |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 515 – 690 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | 205 |
| Elongation | 40% – 45% |
| Hardness (HBW) | 217 – 269 |
Chemical Composition (%)
| Chemical Element | SS 317L |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.03 max |
| Manganese (Mn) | 2 max |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.045 max |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.03 max |
| Silicon (Si) | 1 max |
| Chromium (Cr) | 18 – 20 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 11 – 15 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 3 – 4 |
| Nitrogen (N) | 0.1 – 0.2 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
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