GRADE 310S STAINLESS STEEL
Product Description
310, 310S, and 310H are highly alloyed austenitic stainless steels specifically designed for high-temperature applications requiring exceptional oxidation resistance and excellent strength at elevated temperatures. With their high chromium (24-26%) and nickel (19-22%) content, these grades provide superior performance in aggressive thermal environments up to 2000°F (1100°C) under mildly cyclic conditions.
The 310 family of stainless steels offers an outstanding balance of high-temperature properties, including resistance to oxidation, sulfidation, and other forms of hot corrosion. These grades maintain structural integrity and corrosion resistance under extreme thermal conditions, making them the materials of choice for demanding heat-intensive applications across multiple industries.
Each grade within the 310 family serves specific purposes:
- 310: The standard grade with carbon content up to 0.25%, offering good high-temperature strength and oxidation resistance.
- 310S: A low-carbon variant (≤0.08% C) recommended for applications where sensitization and subsequent corrosion by high-temperature gases or condensates may pose a problem, providing improved resistance to intergranular corrosion.
- 310H: Features a controlled carbon range (0.04-0.10% C) for enhanced creep resistance and high-temperature strength, making it ideal for structural components in extreme thermal environments.
FUSHUN METAL supplies premium-quality 310, 310S, and 310H stainless steel in various forms to meet diverse application requirements across the petrochemical, power generation, thermal processing, and other high-temperature industries. Our materials provide reliable performance in the most challenging thermal environments while maintaining excellent fabricability and weldability.
Applications
310, 310S, and 310H stainless steels are widely used in applications requiring exceptional high-temperature performance, where resistance to oxidation, sulfidation, and thermal fatigue are critical requirements. Their excellent combination of strength at elevated temperatures, resistance to hot corrosion, and good fabricability makes them ideal for components exposed to extreme thermal conditions.
Primary applications for 310, 310S, and 310H stainless steels include:
- Thermal Processing Equipment:
- Furnace parts, muffles, and radiant tubes
- Annealing covers and boxes
- Retorts and heat treatment baskets
- Burners, burner shields, and combustion chambers
- Walking beam components
- Recuperators and heat exchangers
- Petrochemical Industry:
- Flare tips and catalytic recovery systems
- Tube hangers for petroleum refining and steam boilers
- Recuperators and piping for high-temperature service
- Power Generation:
- Coal gasifier internal components
- Fluidized bed coal combustors
- Pulverized coal burners and wind boxes
- Tube hangers and grids
- Metal Processing Industry:
- Smelter and steel melting equipment
- Continuous casting components
- Sintering plant parts including burners, feeding, and discharging systems
- Cement Production:
- Burners and burner shields
- Wind boxes and high-temperature ducting
- Feeding and discharging systems exposed to high temperatures
- Food Processing:
- High-temperature food processing equipment
- Components requiring both heat resistance and sanitary properties
- Other Applications:
- Thermowells for high-temperature measurement
- Refractory anchor bolts
- Cryogenic equipment (leveraging excellent low-temperature toughness)
- Components requiring both high and low-temperature service capability
310S is typically selected when the application environment involves moist corrodents in addition to high temperatures, while 310H is preferred for structural components requiring maximum creep resistance and high-temperature strength. Standard 310 provides a balance of properties suitable for many general high-temperature applications.
Standards
310, 310S, and 310H stainless steels conform to numerous international standards and specifications, ensuring consistent quality and performance in demanding high-temperature applications:
American Standards:
- ASTM A240/ASME SA240: Standard Specification for Chromium and Chromium-Nickel Stainless Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip for Pressure Vessels and for General Applications
- ASTM A167: Standard Specification for Stainless and Heat-Resisting Chromium-Nickel Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip
- ASTM A276/ASME SA276: Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes
- ASTM A312/ASME SA312: Standard Specification for Seamless, Welded, and Heavily Cold Worked Austenitic Stainless Steel Pipes
- ASTM A479/ASME SA479: Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes for Use in Boilers and Other Pressure Vessels
- AMS 5521: Sheet, Strip, and Plate
- AMS 5651: Bars, Forgings, Tubing, and Rings
European Standards:
- EN 10088-2: Stainless steels – Part 2: Technical delivery conditions for sheet/plate and strip of corrosion resisting steels for general purposes
- EN 10088-3: Stainless steels – Part 3: Technical delivery conditions for semi-finished products, bars, rods, wire, sections and bright products of corrosion resisting steels for general purposes
- EN 10095: Heat resisting steels and nickel alloys
- EN 1.4845: European designation for X8CrNi25-21 (similar to 310S)
Japanese Standards:
- JIS G4304: Hot-rolled stainless steel plate, sheet and strip
- JIS G4305: Cold-rolled stainless steel plate, sheet and strip
- SUS 310S: Japanese designation for 310S stainless steel
International Standards:
- UNS S31000: Unified Numbering System designation for 310
- UNS S31008: Unified Numbering System designation for 310S
- UNS S31009: Unified Numbering System designation for 310H
These comprehensive standards ensure that 310, 310S, and 310H stainless steels from FUSHUN METAL meet the rigorous requirements for high-temperature applications across various industries worldwide.
Material Designation and Chemical Composition
310, 310S, and 310H stainless steels are known by various designations in different standards and specification systems:
| Grade | UNS | EN/W.Nr. | EN Designation | Swedish SS | Japanese JIS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 310 | S31000 | – | – | – | SUS 310 |
| 310S | S31008 | 1.4845 | X8CrNi25-21 | 2361 | SUS 310S |
| 310H | S31009 | – | – | – | – |
The chemical composition of 310, 310S, and 310H stainless steels is carefully controlled to ensure optimal performance in high-temperature applications:
| Element | 310 (%) | 310S (%) | 310H (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.25 max | 0.08 max | 0.04-0.10 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 24.0-26.0 | 24.0-26.0 | 24.0-26.0 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 19.0-22.0 | 19.0-22.0 | 19.0-22.0 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 2.0 max | 2.0 max | 2.0 max |
| Silicon (Si) | 1.5 max | 1.5 max | 0.75 max |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.045 max | 0.045 max | 0.045 max |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.030 max | 0.030 max | 0.030 max |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance | Balance | Balance |
The key difference between these grades lies in their carbon content. 310S contains a maximum of 0.08% carbon for improved resistance to sensitization and intergranular corrosion, while 310H has a controlled carbon range of 0.04-0.10% to provide enhanced creep resistance at elevated temperatures. Standard 310 may contain up to 0.25% carbon, which contributes to its high-temperature strength but may make it more susceptible to sensitization during welding or prolonged exposure to temperatures in the 425-860°C (800-1600°F) range.
It’s worth noting that many products are manufactured to meet both 310S and 310H specifications simultaneously (dual certification), particularly in plate and pipe forms. This provides greater versatility in high-temperature applications while ensuring compliance with multiple specification requirements.
Physical and Mechanical Properties
310, 310S, and 310H stainless steels offer exceptional performance at elevated temperatures, maintaining good strength, ductility, and resistance to oxidation under thermal cycling conditions. These properties make them ideal for demanding high-temperature applications.
Physical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 7.75 g/cm³ (0.284 lb/in³) |
| Melting Range | 1354-1402°C (2470-2555°F) |
| Modulus of Elasticity at 20°C | 200 GPa (29.0 × 10⁶ psi) |
| Electrical Resistivity at 20°C | 720 nΩ·m (72 microhm-cm) |
| Thermal Conductivity at 100°C | 14.2 W/m·K (8.2 BTU·in/hr·ft²·°F) |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (20-100°C) | 15.9 × 10⁻⁶ /K (8.8 × 10⁻⁶ /°F) |
| Specific Heat at 0-100°C | 500 J/kg·K (0.12 BTU/lb·°F) |
Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties of 310, 310S, and 310H stainless steels at room temperature according to ASTM A240 and EN 10088-2:
| Property | 310/310S/310H |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (min) | 515 MPa (75 ksi) |
| Yield Strength (0.2% Offset, min) | 205 MPa (30 ksi) |
| Elongation in 50mm (min) | 40% |
| Hardness (max) | 217 HB (95 HRB) |
Elevated temperature tensile properties for 310/310S stainless steel:
| Temperature | Tensile Strength (MPa) |
|---|---|
| 100°C | 600 |
| 300°C | 530 |
| 500°C | 475 |
| 700°C | 315 |
| 900°C | 135 |
Typical creep properties for 310 stainless steel:
| Temperature | Creep Rupture Strength (MPa) | |
|---|---|---|
| 10,000 Hour Rupture Strength | ||
| 600°C (1112°F) | 140 | |
| 700°C (1292°F) | 45 | |
| 800°C (1472°F) | 20 | |
| 900°C (1652°F) | 10 | |
| 1000°C (1832°F) | 4 | |
Heat Treatment
The following heat treatment processes are recommended for 310, 310S, and 310H stainless steels:
- Solution Annealing: Heat to 1030-1150°C (1900-2100°F) for 60 minutes followed by rapid cooling (water quench) to ensure that all carbides are in solution and to maximize corrosion resistance.
- Sigma Phase Removal: After prolonged service at temperatures between 650-900°C (1200-1650°F), 310 grades may become embrittled due to sigma phase formation. Ductility can be restored by annealing at 1040-1150°C (1900-2100°F) followed by rapid cooling. This treatment is recommended after each 1000 hours of service above 650°C (1200°F).
- Hot Working:
- Initial forging and pressing: 1150-1200°C (2100-2190°F)
- Finishing temperature: above 950°C (1740°F)
It’s important to note that these grades cannot be hardened by thermal treatment. The high carbon content in standard 310 and 310H contributes to creep resistance but may lead to sensitization (carbide precipitation) in the temperature range of 425-860°C (800-1580°F). For applications requiring subsequent exposure to corrosive environments, 310S with its lower carbon content may be preferable.
Available Dimensions
FUSHUN METAL supplies 310, 310S, and 310H stainless steel in a wide range of product forms and dimensions to meet diverse application requirements in high-temperature industries:
Plate and Sheet
| Product Form | Thickness | Width | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plate | 4.0 mm – 100 mm (0.156″ – 4.0″) | Up to 3,000 mm (118″) | Up to 12,000 mm (472″) |
| Sheet | 0.5 mm – 3.9 mm (0.020″ – 0.154″) | Up to 1,500 mm (60″) | Up to 6,000 mm (236″) or coil form |
| Strip | 0.1 mm – 3.0 mm (0.004″ – 0.118″) | Up to 600 mm (24″) | Coil form |
Bar and Wire
| Product Form | Diameter/Dimension | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Round Bar | 6 mm – 300 mm (0.236″ – 12″) | Up to 6,000 mm (236″) |
| Square Bar | 10 mm – 150 mm (0.394″ – 6″) | Up to 6,000 mm (236″) |
| Hexagonal Bar | 10 mm – 100 mm (0.394″ – 4″) | Up to 6,000 mm (236″) |
| Flat Bar | Thickness: 5 mm – 100 mm (0.197″ – 4″) Width: 10 mm – 200 mm (0.394″ – 8″) |
Up to 6,000 mm (236″) |
| Wire | 0.5 mm – 12 mm (0.020″ – 0.472″) | Coil form or straightened lengths |
Pipe and Tube
| Product Form | Outside Diameter | Wall Thickness | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seamless Pipe | 6 mm – 350 mm (0.236″ – 14″) | 1.0 mm – 30 mm (0.039″ – 1.181″) | Up to 12,000 mm (472″) |
| Welded Pipe | 6 mm – 600 mm (0.236″ – 24″) | 1.0 mm – 30 mm (0.039″ – 1.181″) | Up to 12,000 mm (472″) |
| Tube | 6 mm – 150 mm (0.236″ – 6″) | 0.5 mm – 10 mm (0.020″ – 0.394″) | Up to 12,000 mm (472″) |
Fittings and Flanges
| Product Form | Size Range | Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Buttweld Fittings | 1/2″ – 24″ (DN15 – DN600) | ASTM/ASME standards |
| Forged Fittings | 1/8″ – 4″ (DN6 – DN100) | ASTM/ASME standards |
| Flanges | 1/2″ – 24″ (DN15 – DN600) | ASTM/ASME standards |
Custom dimensions, tolerances, and surface finishes are available upon request to meet specific application requirements. FUSHUN METAL can provide dual-certified 310S/310H material for applications requiring compliance with both specifications, offering greater versatility in high-temperature service.
High-Temperature Performance and Corrosion Resistance
310, 310S, and 310H stainless steels provide outstanding performance in high-temperature environments, making them the materials of choice for many thermal applications. Understanding their behavior under different conditions is essential for proper material selection and application.
Oxidation Resistance
The high chromium (24-26%) content of 310-series stainless steels provides exceptional resistance to oxidation:
- Continuous service in air: up to 1200°C (2190°F)
- Intermittent service in air: up to 1030°C (1886°F)
- Good resistance to thermal fatigue and cyclic heating
- Can withstand temperatures fluctuating above and below the sensitization range (425-860°C) with minimal degradation
The maximum recommended service temperatures vary depending on the specific environment:
- Oxidizing conditions (max sulfur content–2 g/m³): 1050°C (1922°F) continuous service, 1100°C (2012°F) peak temperature
- Oxidizing conditions (sulfur content > 2 g/m³): 950°C (1742°F) maximum temperature
- Low oxygen atmosphere (max sulfur content–2 g/m³): 1000°C (1832°F) maximum temperature
- Nitriding or carburizing atmospheres: 850-950°C (1562-1742°F) maximum
Sulfidation and Carburization Resistance
310-series stainless steels offer good resistance to sulfidation due to their high chromium and medium nickel contents:
- Widely used in environments where sulfur dioxide gas is encountered at elevated temperatures
- Effective in moderately carburizing atmospheres such as those encountered in petrochemical environments
- For severely carburizing atmospheres (like industrial heat treating furnaces), nickel-based alloys may be more appropriate
Corrosion Resistance in Aqueous Environments
Though primarily designed for high-temperature applications, 310-series stainless steels also offer good corrosion resistance in many aqueous environments:
- The high chromium content provides a PRE (Pitting Resistance Equivalent) of approximately 25, similar to that of Type 316 stainless steel
- 310S offers improved resistance to intergranular corrosion due to its lower carbon content
- Resistant to fuming nitric acid at room temperature and fused nitrates up to 425°C (797°F)
- Not recommended for use in highly reducing acids
Sigma Phase Formation
A notable limitation of 310-series stainless steels is their susceptibility to sigma phase formation:
- Prone to sigma phase embrittlement in the temperature range 650-900°C (1202-1652°F)
- Sigma phase can cause significant reduction in ductility and impact strength
- After prolonged service above 650°C (1202°F), a solution annealing treatment is recommended to restore ductility
Thermal Shock Resistance
310-series stainless steels offer good resistance to thermal cycling and moderate thermal shock:
- Suitable for applications with gradual temperature changes
- Not recommended for severe thermal shock conditions such as repeated liquid quenching
Cryogenic Performance
Despite being designed primarily for high-temperature service, 310-series stainless steels also perform well at cryogenic temperatures:
- Excellent toughness down to -450°F (-268°C)
- Low magnetic permeability at cryogenic temperatures
- Used in applications requiring both high and low-temperature service capability
These performance characteristics make 310, 310S, and 310H stainless steels versatile materials for a wide range of high-temperature applications across multiple industries, providing reliable service in some of the most demanding thermal environments.
Why Choose FUSHUN METAL for 310, 310S, and 310H Stainless Steel
When selecting a supplier for premium 310, 310S, and 310H heat-resistant stainless steel, FUSHUN METAL stands as your preferred partner for several compelling reasons:
Superior Material Quality and Consistency
At FUSHUN METAL, we implement rigorous quality control processes throughout our production chain. Our 310-series stainless steels undergo comprehensive testing for chemical composition, mechanical properties, microstructure, and high-temperature performance to ensure full compliance with international standards. This meticulous attention to quality guarantees that our products consistently deliver exceptional performance in the most demanding thermal environments, providing you with reliable materials for critical high-temperature applications.
Extensive High-Temperature Metallurgical Expertise
Our team of metallurgical specialists possesses extensive knowledge and experience in heat-resistant alloys, particularly in the complex behavior of austenitic stainless steels at elevated temperatures. This expertise enables us to provide valuable technical support in material selection and application guidance, helping you choose the optimal grade (310, 310S, or 310H) and product form for your specific operating conditions. We understand the critical performance factors in high-temperature service, including oxidation resistance, creep behavior, and microstructural stability, ensuring you receive the most appropriate material for your challenging thermal environments.
Comprehensive Product Range with Dual Certification Options
FUSHUN METAL offers one of the most extensive ranges of 310-series stainless steel products available, including plate, sheet, strip, bar, pipe, tube, and fittings in various dimensions and surface finishes. We specialize in providing dual-certified 310S/310H material that meets the requirements of both specifications simultaneously, offering you greater versatility and simplified inventory management for high-temperature applications. Our diverse product portfolio allows you to source all your heat-resistant stainless steel requirements from a single, reliable supplier, streamlining your procurement process.
Specialized Fabrication and Processing Capabilities
We understand that high-temperature applications often require specialized processing to ensure optimal performance. FUSHUN METAL offers various value-added services including precision cutting, edge preparation, custom fabrication, and specialized heat treatments to meet your exact specifications. Our familiarity with the fabrication challenges of heat-resistant alloys allows us to provide materials that facilitate efficient manufacturing of your high-temperature components while ensuring they maintain their exceptional thermal performance in service.
Global Supply Capability with Technical Support
With our global supply network, FUSHUN METAL can deliver premium 310-series stainless steel products to customers worldwide with consistent quality and reliable lead times. Our technical support team is available to assist with material selection, specification requirements, and application challenges, providing you with comprehensive support throughout your project lifecycle. Whether you need standard products or custom solutions for specialized high-temperature applications, we have the capabilities and expertise to meet your requirements.
For your next project requiring the exceptional high-temperature performance of 310, 310S, or 310H stainless steel, we invite you to contact our technical team to discuss your specific requirements. Our experts are ready to help you select the optimal material grade and form to ensure reliable, long-term performance in your most demanding thermal environments.
