430 Stainless Steel – Data Sheet, Properties, Hardening
The stainless steel grade 430 is classified as a ferritic grade and with moderate material properties. In comparison to austenitic stainless steels like 304 and 316Ti, 304 exhibits inferior resistance to corrosion, despite having a similarly high chromium content (16-18%). Unlike the popular V4A steels, however, this ferritic steel lacks nickel content as an alloying element. 430 is also known under the EN abbreviation X6Cr17 as well as under the material designation EN 1.4016.
430 data sheet
The chemical composition of 1.4016 ranges in the following values:
| C | Si | Mn | P | S | Cr | Ni |
| ≤ 0.08% | ≤ 1 % | ≤ 1 % | ≤ 0.04% | ≤ 0.015% | 17% | – |
Properties of 430
430 is a stainless steel grade with a rich chromium content of 17%. It demonstrates suitability for utilization in environments characterized by organic acids and low acid concentration media, but not in saline environments.
In terms of material properties, 430 exhibits commendable resistance to stress corrosion cracking attributable to its ferritic crystal structure, unlike numerous untreated austenitic steels that are prone to intergranular corrosion. Despite its favorable welding characteristics, 430’s resistance to stress corrosion cracking diminishes after welding and at elevated temperatures. The material can be used at temperatures up to 400 °C, and it evinces resistance to oxidation up to 870 °C.
Key Applications of 430 Stainless Steel
Grade 430 stainless steel is distinguished by its combination of corrosion resistance, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making it a preferred material for a wide range of applications. Enhanced through the BORINOX® process for superior wear resistance, this ferritic stainless steel variant finds its use in:
- Kitchen Appliances: Its excellent formability and aesthetic finish make grade 430 stainless steel a popular choice for kitchen appliances, including refrigerators, stoves, and dishwasher linings, where hygiene and easy cleaning are paramount.
- Architectural Trim and Paneling: The material’s appealing surface finish and good corrosion resistance make it suitable for exterior architectural applications, such as trim, paneling, and facade cladding, offering buildings both protection and an enhanced aesthetic.
- Automotive Trim: Leveraging its resistance to corrosion and high temperature, 430 stainless steel is widely used in automotive trim and exhaust systems, providing both longevity and a sleek appearance to vehicle exteriors.
- Chemical Applications: Its moderate resistance to organic acids and low-acid concentration media makes it applicable in chemical processing environments, especially in equipment and containers for certain chemicals.
- Food Industry: Due to its resistance to a broad range of organic materials, 430 stainless steel is used in food production and storage equipment, where maintaining the purity of the product is essential.
- Thermal Applications: Benefiting from its excellent thermal conductivity and thermal expansion properties, grade 430 is utilized in applications where temperature variation is a concern, contributing to the efficiency and safety of systems.
- Decorative Applications: The aesthetic appeal of 430 stainless steel, coupled with its ability to withstand atmospheric conditions without significant corrosion, makes it a favored option for decorative features, both indoors and outdoors.
Hardening of 430 stainless steel
Stainless steel grade 430, prized for its mechanical properties, is integral to various sectors, such as dishwasher linings, automotive trim, and range hoods production. Yet, its moderate corrosion resistance, especially when compared to chromium-nickel alloys, can limit its application scope. Bortec’s cutting-edge surface hardening technologies, particularly the BORINOX® process, provide a compelling enhancement solution.
The BORINOX® process for steel hardening significantly bolsters the durability of grade 430 stainless steel. The low-pressure hardening technique meticulously fortifies the material’s surface layer, elevating its wear, cold welding, and abrasion resistance, all while preserving the metal’s structural integrity. Distinct from traditional hardening approaches that risk crack formation, BORINOX® ensures the steel’s condition remains intact, markedly extending its service life.
