SuperiorWasher

300 Series Stainless Steel Washers And Their Industrial Performance

Flat washers stamped from stainless steel in the 300 series carry many useful properties. These properties make them among the most commonly employed types of stainless steel washers. They also provide many specialized advantages that make them uniquely suitable for certain industrial uses and applications.

300 series stainless steel washers include those made from a variety of chromium-nickel alloys, which are classified as austenitic stainless steel. Some times this series includes alloys with added nitrogen to cut nickel requirements and reduce costs.

300 series stainless steel washers are strong, economical, and provide corrosion resistance, which can be greatly enhanced depending on the specific grade and elemental additions to the alloy. Most commercial and industrial products made from stainless steel are made from alloys in this category.

301 stainless steel is used to make washers for varied purposes. 302 stainless steel, sometimes referred to as 18/8 stainless steel, which is equivalent to 304 stainless steel, is also a common material used in the production of washers for industrial, aerospace, and general-use placements.

304 stainless steel is one of the most common grades used in the production of industrial, commercial, and household products, including washers and similar hardware.

316 stainless steel washers can be used in many of the same applications as other types, but they are more often chosen for more demanding environments. This particular grade of stainless steel includes a small amount of molybdenum.

This addition greatly enhances resistance to certain corrosive substances, including acids and saltwater. There are versions of this grade with reduced carbon content, which are mostly selected for welding applications. Lower-carbon 316L and 304L washers will not corrode under such treatments.

300 series stainless steel washers include many flat washers, which are primarily used to add spacing and support and distribute force between fasteners. This will help to preserve the materials that are joined by the assembly. Stainless steel enhances these capabilities by also resisting corrosion.

They will therefore prevent rust in many environments. With the addition of a stainless steel washer, the fastener assembly—and joint which it maintains—is better preserved.

300 series stainless steel washers are also used to make other types of washers and shims that may be used for more than just load distribution and spacing. These include lock washers, tag washers, spring washers, slotted shims, and more.

When seeking stainless steel washers, many types from the 300 series are suitable options. They are available from hardware and fastener suppliers, but the best way to ensure quality, uniformity, and traceability of material grades is to source them directly from a qualified stainless steel washer manufacturer.

What Grade Are ASTM A240 Washers?

ASTM A240 washers are made from chromium-nickel stainless steel, which can include washers made from 302, 304, and 304L stainless steel grades, as well as 316 and 316L stainless steel grades. Washers that fall under the A240 stainless steel specification meet with criteria set by ASTM International.

Are 300 Series Stainless Steel Washers Marine Grade?

Washers made from stainless steel in the 300 series are not inherently suitable for marine applications, but this series includes some grades that will resist highly corrosive substances, such as saltwater.

Most notably, 316 stainless steel washers are a leading option for marine applications. This grade of stainless steel contains a small amount of molybdenum, which enables it to withstand certain types of acid and chloride exposure.

The presence of chlorine in saltwater and salt-spray is the principal factor in the formation of rust in marine settings, as well as those regularly exposed to certain chemicals and moisture.

Although no one type of stainless steel is officially known as a marine-grade, 316 stainless steel will maintain its integrity when subjected to moderate chlorine levels. It is used to make washers that are suitable for use in marine and maritime settings.