 Stainless Steel, also called Inox Steel, is steel that contains more than
12% chromium, with or without other alloying elements. Stainless steel
resists corrosion, maintains its strength at high temperatures and is
easily maintained.
APPLICATIONS: Some common uses of stainless steel balls
are as vibratory polishing media, as valves for dispenser spray pumps,
as agitators in personal care products like nail polish bottles, in machine
bearings, automobiles sub assemblies, in drawer slides, as grinding media
for cocoa and chocolate liquo
The most common grades of stainless steel balls are:
AISI 304. The most commonly specified austenitic (chromium-nickel stainless
class) stainless steel, which accounts for more than half of the stainless
steel produced in the world. This grade withstands ordinary corrosion,
is durable and resists most chemicals.
AISI 316. Austenitic (chromium-nickel stainless class) stainless steel
containing 2%-3% molybdenum (whereas 304 has none). The inclusion of molybdenum
gives 316 greater resistance to various forms of deterioration.
AISI 420. Martensitic stainless steel. Has 12% chromium. Can be hardened
and tempered like alloy steels. This steel is magnetic.
AISI 430. The most widely used ferritic (plain chromium stainless category)
stainless steel, offering general-purpose corrosion resistance (lower
than AISI 304). Doesnot contain any Nickel. This steel is magnetic.
AISI 302. Has almost the same chemical composition as 304 with slightly
more carbon content and less chromium. Corrosion resistance is more than
AISI 430 but less than 30
Corrosion Resistance: AISI 316 > 304 > 302 > 430.
Hardenability: The above stainless steel (except AISI 420) are not hardenable
by heat treatment. Some work-hardening takes place during cold-forging.
Magnetism: Whereas AISI 430 is magnetic; AISI 304 and 302 are slightly
magnetic and AISI 316 is non magnetic. However, in the manufacture of
steel balls and media during the cold working process (cold forging /
heading) slight magnetism is induced in all the stainless steel types.
Passivation: The stainless steel balls are passivated after final polish.
Carryover iron and other contaminants are removed and a surface film prevents
atmospheric and water corrosion on stainless steel balls. |
