Austenitic Stainless Steels

These are the most commonly used corrosion resistant alloys and typically what is thought of when the generic term “stainless steel” is used. These alloys provide good toughness and corrosion resistance even at cryogenic temperatures.

Alloy Properties
Representative Alloys	CF8, CF8M, CN7M
Applications	Most widely used corrosion resistant Alloys; useful at temperatures from cryogenic to 1000 F (500 C), depending on the grade
Limitations	Special grades available for applications requiring higher strength, low magnetic permeability, etc.
Typical Uses	Chemical processing, marine, power plant, pulp and paper, fertilizer, food and dairy
Machinability	Fair
Weldability	Generally very good; fully austenitic grades may require special procedures
Corrosion Resistance	Though some grades are used as-cast, heat treatment maximizes corrosion resistance