Material grades of stainless steel square hollow sections

Stainless steel square hollow sections (SS SHS) come in various material grades, each designed to meet specific performance requirements. These grades vary in their composition, providing different levels of corrosion resistance, strength, and suitability for diverse applications. Here are some commonly used stainless steel grades for square hollow sections.

1. 304 Stainless Steel

Description: The most widely used stainless steel grade, known for its excellent corrosion resistance and formability.

Applications: Ideal for indoor and mild outdoor applications such as structural supports, frames, and furniture.

Key Properties: Good corrosion resistance, weldability, and ease of fabrication. Not suited for highly corrosive environments.

2. 316 Stainless Steel

Description: A high-performance grade with added molybdenum, enhancing corrosion resistance in harsh environments.

Applications: Commonly used in coastal, marine, and industrial settings, such as in marine structures, chemical processing equipment, and outdoor applications.

Key Properties: Superior resistance to pitting and corrosion from chlorides, acids, and salts, making it suitable for challenging environments.

3. 201 Stainless Steel

Description: An economical grade with lower nickel content than 304, making it more affordable.

Applications: Often used for applications where cost is a priority, such as furniture, handrails, and decorative items.

Key Properties: Moderate corrosion resistance and durability, though not as high-performing in corrosive environments as 304 or 316.

4. 430 Stainless Steel

Description: A ferritic grade that provides basic corrosion resistance and is magnetic.

Applications: Suitable for indoor applications like appliances, exhaust systems, and low-stress structural uses.

Key Properties: Good corrosion resistance to mild environments and excellent polishability. However, it’s not as resistant to corrosion as austenitic grades like 304 or 316.

5. 2205 Duplex Stainless Steel

Description: A duplex stainless steel that combines the properties of austenitic and ferritic stainless steels, offering high strength and excellent corrosion resistance.

Applications: Frequently used in high-stress, corrosive environments, such as oil and gas, chemical plants, and marine applications.

Key Properties: Outstanding resistance to stress corrosion cracking and excellent strength, making it ideal for applications requiring durability and corrosion resistance.

6. 317L Stainless Steel

Description: An austenitic stainless steel with higher molybdenum content than 316, enhancing its corrosion resistance.

Applications: Suitable for highly corrosive environments, including chemical processing equipment and food processing facilities.

Key Properties: High resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, especially useful in environments with chlorides and other aggressive chemicals.

7. 304L and 316L Stainless Steel

Description: "L" designates low carbon content, which improves weldability and reduces the risk of corrosion in welded sections.

Applications: Preferred for welded structures, like frames, pipes, and other applications where welding is required.

Key Properties: Enhanced weldability, reduced risk of weld decay, and good corrosion resistance.

Each of these grades offers unique benefits that make stainless steel square hollow sections versatile for a range of structural and industrial applications. Selection should be based on the environmental conditions, budget, and performance requirements of the project.