Stainless Steel AISI416 is a martensitic stainless steel belonging to the family of steels hardenable by transformation to martensite (according to ASTM A582 / A582M-12: 416 re-approved in 2017), it is also sought after as AISI / SAE 416, DIN 1.4005, and JIS SUS 416, its chemical composition, which contains a maximum of 0.15% carbon, 1.25% manganese, a maximum of 0.06% phosphorus, a minimum of 0.15% sulfur, a maximum of 1.0% silicon and 12.0 to 14.0% chromium, is distinguished by its capacity to harden by transformation to martensite and resistance to corrosion.
Properties of AISI 416
Supplied in an annealed state with a maximum hardness of 262 HB (~26 HRC), it presents notable mechanical properties at room temperature, with a tensile strength of 510 MPa (74,000 Lb/in).2), yield strength of 274 MPa (40,000 Lb/in2), 30% elongation, 60% area reduction, these values are typical and apply under annealing conditions, they are not mandatory, and should be considered as a general reference (NMX – B- 83 – 1988).
This steel is distinguished by being a variant of AISI 410, 416 is capable of reaching hardness close to 42 HRC by hardening by transformation to martensite, it can be tempered at various temperatures to adjust its mechanical properties and toughness, due to the addition of sulfur. Its machinability is improved, being classified as "Free Machining Stainless Steel".
It offers good resistance to corrosion, has magnetic properties, maintaining its resistance to oxidation up to 760 °C, however, caution must be taken in forging, since the sulfur content reduces hot forgeability, recommending a range of 1150 – 1260 °C and avoiding forging below 870 °C.
Applications of AISI 416
In terms of applications, AISI 416 is used in the production of mechanical parts exposed to moderate corrosive environments, such as screws, bushings, couplings, connections, etc., it is also used in the manufacture of arrows and components of water extraction pumps. in the agricultural sector, and can replace type 303 AISI stainless steel in non-severely corrosive conditions and without permanent exposure to high temperatures.
