Stainless steel is used in all types of applications where high resistance to corrosion is a factor to consider. Different grades or alloys of stainless steel offer more or less corrosion resistance across specific types of environments.

Stainless steel also offers a self-healing surface, which means any scratching or surface damage is healed by the chromium oxide film naturally formed on the surface. For this reason, stainless steel is used in sanitary and hygiene applications. It is also an ideal choice when the strength-to-weight factor is a consideration, as is found in the aerospace industry.

Finding the best grade of stainless steel for machining is critical when it comes to precision part manufacturing. The team at JBC Machine has extensive experience in working with stainless steel, and we understand how to set up machining processes to ensure precision parts and components for any type of order.

There are some options to consider in choosing the best grade of stainless steel for machining. The following are two grades of stainless that are used throughout many industries and offer exceptional machining properties.

• Ferritic stainless steel – considered the best grade of stainless steel for machining for ease, the ferritic stainless steels include the 400 grades. These stainless steels are easy to machine and also offer good corrosion resistance and high thermal conductivity.

• Austenitic stainless steel – this includes the popular grades 302 and 316. They are resistant to corrosion and used in everything from household utensils to machinery components. While more challenging to machine without experience, we have the equipment and systems to create precision parts.

If you need assistance in machining any type of stainless steel, give us a call at 920-779-4075. We have machined all types of materials, including precipitation-hardened and duplex stainless steels.