Stainless Steel 1.4438 / AISI 317L
General Technical Characteristics
Stainless steel 1.4438 / AISI 317L is a highly alloyed austenitic corrosion-resistant steel of the chromium–nickel–molybdenum system with reduced carbon content. Due to the increased molybdenum content, the material has improved resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion compared to standard grades such as AISI 316.
AISI 317L steel demonstrates high resistance to aggressive chemical environments, including solutions of acids, salts, and chlorides. The low carbon content prevents carbide formation during welding, which reduces the risk of intergranular corrosion.
Thanks to the combination of strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance, stainless steel 1.4438 is widely used for manufacturing equipment operating under demanding service conditions.
Applications
Stainless steel 1.4438 / AISI 317L is used in various industrial sectors:
- chemical and petrochemical industry
- equipment for chemical processing
- heat exchanger manufacturing
- pipeline systems and storage tanks
- marine and coastal infrastructure
- pulp and paper industry
- pharmaceutical and food processing equipment
Due to its enhanced corrosion resistance, AISI 317L is suitable for operation in aggressive environments.
Features and Advantages
Key advantages of stainless steel 1.4438:
- increased resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion
- high resistance to chemically aggressive environments
- low carbon content and protection against intergranular corrosion
- good weldability and manufacturability
- high durability and reliability
- stable mechanical properties
These properties make AISI 317L an effective material for industrial equipment operating under harsh conditions.
Chemical Composition
| Element | Content % |
|---|---|
| Chromium (Cr) | 18–20 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 11–15 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 3–4 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 2 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1 |
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.03 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.045 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.03 |
| Iron (Fe) | balance |
Mechanical Properties
Main mechanical properties of AISI 317L steel:
- Tensile Strength (Rm): 520–760 MPa
- Yield Strength (Rp0.2): ≥ 220 MPa
- Elongation: ≥ 40 %
- Hardness: up to 200 HB
Due to its high strength, corrosion resistance, and good manufacturability, stainless steel 1.4438 / AISI 317L is a reliable material for manufacturing equipment and structures operating in aggressive industrial environments.
