400 Series Stainless Steel Washers For Use In Industrial Applications And More

400 series stainless steel washers are made from alloys that belong to a ferritic and martensitic chromium family of stainless steel. They are used for a broad range of applications and carry distinct properties that benefit fastener assemblies used in structural, equipment, and tool settings.

Washers stamped from this series include 410 stainless steel washers, 420 stainless steel washers, 430 stainless steel washers, and others.

410 stainless steel is a high strength grade that contains higher levels of iron and chromium. It is best used in high-wear applications. Although it provides some degree of corrosion resistance, it is comparatively lower to other types of stainless steel with less iron content.

408 stainless steel is sometimes used to make washers that must endure higher levels of heat. They are often categorized as heavy-duty or industrial-strength washers. They are useful for many high-endurance applications but they exhibit poor resistance to corrosion compared to other types of stainless steel in this series.

420 stainless steel washers are another common option. This type of stainless steel is often used in the production of many household tools and utensils. It is often referred to as cutlery grade for such reasons. Washers stamped from 420 stainless steel will resist rust and add strength between components.

They can be polished to a high-gloss finish if required. This grade has some similarities with 440 stainless steel, which is extra hard and can also hold a mirror-like finish.

430 stainless steel washers can fit requirements for a high-sheen appearance and rust resistance. These washers are used on assemblies that are more visible, including automotive trim, decorative fixtures, furniture, and similar settings. They do not, however, carry exceptional heat resistance or endurance when exposed to notably corrosive conditions.

400 series stainless steel flat washers are most often used to add spacing and support between nuts, bolts, or screws. By separating these parts from an installation surface, the load, which is introduced as the fasteners are tightened, will be more evenly distributed. This helps in reaching and maintaining the correct tension, protecting the surfaces of materials and joints, and ensuring assemblies do not rattle, loosen, or warp over time.

400 series stainless steel is also used in the manufacture of other types of washers, including toothed or lock washers, fender washers, and wedge washers among others.

Corrosion resistance, strength, and shine are added to these advantages through the inherent properties of 400 series stainless steel. This also applies to shims, spacers, and other small stampings made from alloys in these series.

Since material integrity is so valuable for washers of all types, the best way to get an assurance of quality is to get them directly from the stamping source by contacting a stainless steel washer manufacturer.

What Are 410 Stainless Steel Washers Used For?

410 stainless steel washers are used in applications that require only moderate corrosion resistance but reliable strength and wear-resistance. This grade is often used to make toothed and lock washers, which will grip the neck of a fastener and prevent the assembly from being removed or loosened. 410 stainless steel washers are not the best choice for high-shine corrosion resistance, but they will endure medium to heavy-duty load demands.

Are 430 Stainless Steel Washers Food Safe?

430 stainless steel washers are made from an alloy that is considered a food-safe grade. 430 stainless steel is used in equipment and tools for processing and preparation of foods and beverages.

430 stainless steel shares some qualities with 420 stainless steel, which is referred to as cutlery grade steel, although it does not have the same degree of corrosion and temperature resistance. For certain types of food processing applications, 420 stainless steel washers may offer more reliable performance.