Stainless Steel, Martensitic
416 Stainless Steel (S41600) Bar
Martensitic stainless steel machining bar.
416 stainless steel is a martensitic, high-carbon stainless steel known for its excellent machinability combined with good corrosion resistance and moderate strength. It is part of the 416 series, which are designed to provide improved mechanical properties while maintaining reasonable corrosion resistance.
Grade 416 is sometimes used in the unhardened or hardened and highly tempered condition because of its low cost and ready machinability.
Martensitic stainless steels are optimised for high hardness, and other properties are to some degree compromised. Fabrication must be by methods that allow for poor weldability and usually also allow for a final harden and temper heat treatment. Corrosion resistance is lower than the common austenitic grades, and their useful operating temperature range is limited by their loss of ductility at sub-zero temperatures and loss of strength by over-tempering at elevated temperatures.
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Range
| Product Form | Condition | Imperial Sizes | Metric Sizes |
| Round Bar | QT650 | 1⁄8" - 6" | 4mm - 30mm |
| Round Bar | Condition P | 1⁄8" - 6" | 4mm - 30mm |
PLEASE NOTE
If you do not see what you are looking for, please contact your local service centre with your specific requirements.
416 Stainless Steel Related Specifications
| System / Standard | Country / Region | Grade / Designation |
| AISI | USA | 416 |
| UNS | International | S41600 |
| EN / W.Nr. | Europe | 1.4005 |
| EN Name | Europe | X12CrS13 |
| ASTM A276 | USA | 416 (bars, shapes) |
| ASTM A582 | USA | 416 (free-machining bars) |
| ASTM A314 | USA | 416 (forged/rolled bars) |
| JIS | Japan | SUS416 |
| BS | UK | 416S21 |
Properties
Chemical Composition
1.4005 Steel
EN 10088-3
| Chemical Element | % Present |
| Carbon (C) | 0.06 - 0.15 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 12.00 - 14.00 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.00 - 1.50 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.00 - 1.00 |
| Phosphorous (P) | 0.00 - 0.04 |
| Sulphur (S) | 0.15 - 0.35 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 0.00 - 0.60 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
Mechanical Properties
Bar Up to 160mm Dia or Thickness
EN 10088-3
| Mechanical Property | Value |
| Proof Stress | 450 Min MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 650 - 850 MPa |
General Physical Properties
| Physical Property | Value |
| Density | 7.75 g/cm³ |
| Thermal Expansion | 9.9 x 10-6/K |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 200 GPa |
| Thermal Conductivity | 24.9 W/m.K |
| Electrical Resistivity | 0.57 x 10-6 Ω .m |
Applications of 416 Stainless Steel
416 stainless steel is a martensitic, high-carbon stainless steel known for its excellent machinability, moderate corrosion resistance, and good mechanical strength. It is widely used in applications where precision machining and corrosion resistance are required.
1. Industrial Applications
Valves, pumps, and fittings: Precision components requiring accurate machining.
Gears, shafts, and fasteners: Components subjected to moderate stress and wear.
Precision instruments and tooling: Applications needing tight tolerances and machinability.
2. Automotive Applications
Engine components: Shafts, pins, and fasteners.
Fuel system parts: Where corrosion resistance and machinability are important.
3. General Applications
Industrial machinery parts exposed to mild corrosive environments.
Custom mechanical components requiring good machinability and moderate corrosion resistance.
Summary
416 stainless steel is primarily used in precision-machined components for industrial, automotive, and general mechanical applications, where machinability, moderate corrosion resistance, and mechanical strength are essential.
Characteristics of 416 Stainless Steel
416 stainless steel is a martensitic, high-carbon stainless steel designed for excellent machinability while maintaining moderate corrosion resistance and good mechanical strength. It is widely used for precision components where both performance and ease of machining are required.
1. Mechanical Properties
High strength and hardness: Can be heat treated to enhance mechanical properties.
Good wear resistance: Suitable for components subjected to moderate stress and friction.
2. Machinability
Excellent machinability: One of the key advantages of 416 stainless steel.
Can be machined efficiently with minimal tool wear compared to other martensitic stainless steels.
3. Corrosion Resistance
Moderate resistance to oxidation and mild corrosive environments.
Not recommended for highly corrosive or chloride-rich environments.
4. Fabrication
Can be formed and machined easily due to its ductility and machinability.
Weldable using appropriate methods, but care must be taken to avoid sensitization and maintain corrosion resistance.
5. Applications
Precision gears, shafts, and fasteners
Valves, pumps, and fittings
Automotive components and industrial machinery parts
Summary
416 stainless steel is a martensitic, high-carbon stainless steel with excellent machinability, good mechanical strength, and moderate corrosion resistance. Its combination of properties makes it ideal for precision-machined components in automotive, industrial, and general engineering applications.
Additional Information
Fabrication
Fabrication of 416 Stainless Steel
416 stainless steel is a martensitic, high-carbon stainless steel with excellent machinability, moderate corrosion resistance, and good mechanical strength. Its properties make it suitable for a variety of fabrication processes in industrial, automotive, and precision applications.
1. Forming
Cold Working:
Can be bent, drawn, or rolled with care.
Rapid work hardening may require intermediate annealing for extensive forming.
Hot Working:
Recommended temperature range: 980–1150°C (1800–2100°F).
Suitable for forging, hot rolling, or extrusion to shape thick or complex components.
2. Machining
Excellent machinability is a primary advantage of 416 stainless steel.
Can be machined with high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide tools, maintaining sharp edges and precise tolerances.
Coolants are recommended to reduce heat buildup and tool wear.
3. Welding
Weldable using conventional methods (TIG, MIG, SMAW), but martensitic steels require care.
Preheating and post-weld tempering may be applied to reduce cracking and retain mechanical properties.
Filler metals should match the 416 grade for best corrosion and strength performance.
4. Heat Treatment
Can be hardened and tempered to increase strength and wear resistance.
Heat treatment also helps relieve stresses induced by cold working or machining.
5. Applications Related to Fabrication
Precision gears, shafts, and fasteners
Valves, pumps, and fittings
Automotive components and industrial machinery
Custom mechanical parts requiring machinability and corrosion resistance
Summary
416 stainless steel is highly fabricable, offering excellent machinability, good mechanical properties, and moderate corrosion resistance. Proper forming, machining, welding, and heat treatment enable the production of precision components for automotive, industrial, and general engineering applications.
Weldability
Weldability of 416 Stainless Steel
416 stainless steel is a martensitic, high-carbon stainless steel known for its excellent machinability and good mechanical strength. While it can be welded, certain precautions are necessary due to its high carbon content, which can increase the risk of cracking and reduced corrosion resistance in the heat-affected zone.
1. Welding Methods
Can be welded using standard methods:
TIG (GTAW) – for precise, high-quality welds
MIG (GMAW) – for faster production welding
SMAW (Stick Welding) – suitable for general fabrication
Care must be taken to avoid overheating, which can lead to cracking.
2. Welding Considerations
Preheating (150–300°C / 300–570°F) may be applied for thicker sections to reduce thermal stress.
Post-weld tempering is recommended to restore ductility and toughness and relieve residual stresses.
Filler metals matching 416 or compatible martensitic stainless steel should be used to maintain mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
3. Limitations
Higher carbon content increases the risk of intergranular cracking.
Corrosion resistance in the weld zone may be slightly reduced compared to the base metal.
4. Applications Related to Weldability
Valves, pumps, and fittings requiring welded assemblies
Automotive components and shafts
Industrial machinery components that require joined parts with precise tolerances
Summary
416 stainless steel is weldable, but due to its martensitic structure and high carbon content, welding requires controlled preheating, proper filler metals, and post-weld tempering. Following these practices ensures strong, durable, and moderately corrosion-resistant welded joints suitable for industrial, automotive, and precision applications.
Machinability
Machinability of 416 Stainless Steel
416 stainless steel is a martensitic, high-carbon stainless steel specifically designed for excellent machinability while maintaining good corrosion resistance and mechanical strength. Its machinability makes it ideal for precision components and high-volume production.
1. Key Machining Characteristics
Excellent machinability: One of the primary advantages of 416 stainless steel among martensitic stainless steels.
Produces clean, continuous chips during machining.
Minimal tool wear compared to other high-carbon martensitic stainless steels.
2. Tooling Recommendations
High-speed steel (HSS) or carbide tools are recommended for efficiency and durability.
Proper cooling and lubrication help reduce heat buildup and improve surface finish.
Sharp tools are essential to minimize work hardening of the material.
3. Machining Considerations
416 stainless steel can be turned, milled, drilled, or tapped with high precision.
Controlled cutting speeds and feed rates improve tool life and dimensional accuracy.
Post-machining stress relief or tempering may be applied for high-strength or high-wear applications.
4. Applications Related to Machinability
Precision gears, shafts, and fasteners
Valves, pumps, and fittings
Automotive components and industrial machinery requiring tight tolerances
Custom mechanical parts in high-volume manufacturing
Summary
416 stainless steel offers excellent machinability while retaining good corrosion resistance and mechanical strength. Its ease of machining makes it suitable for precision components, automotive parts, industrial machinery, and high-volume production requiring accurate and efficient machining.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion Resistance of 416 Stainless Steel
416 stainless steel is a martensitic, high-carbon stainless steel that combines excellent machinability with moderate corrosion resistance. While it does not match the corrosion resistance of austenitic stainless steels, it performs well in mildly corrosive environments.
1. General Corrosion Resistance
Suitable for mild oxidizing environments such as air, water, and light chemicals.
Better corrosion resistance than standard carbon steels, but lower than 300-series stainless steels.
2. Stress Corrosion Resistance
Moderate resistance to stress corrosion cracking under normal service conditions.
Care should be taken in chloride-rich environments, where susceptibility increases, especially after welding or machining.
3. Corrosion Resistance After Machining or Welding
Low carbon content compared to some martensitic steels reduces the risk of sensitization.
Post-fabrication passivation or pickling can enhance surface corrosion resistance.
Heat treatment after welding or machining helps restore corrosion resistance and mechanical properties.
4. Applications Related to Corrosion Resistance
Valves, pumps, and fittings in mildly corrosive environments
Automotive components exposed to air or mild chemicals
Industrial machinery parts requiring moderate corrosion protection and high machinability
Summary
416 stainless steel provides moderate corrosion resistance, suitable for mildly corrosive environments. Combined with its excellent machinability and mechanical strength, it is ideal for precision components, industrial machinery, automotive parts, and other applications where corrosion is not extreme.
Cold Working
Cold Working of 416 Stainless Steel
416 stainless steel is a martensitic, high-carbon stainless steel with good ductility and excellent machinability, making it suitable for a variety of cold working processes. Cold working improves strength and hardness but must be done carefully to avoid excessive work hardening.
1. Cold Working Processes
Bending and Forming: Can be bent into precise shapes for industrial and automotive components.
Rolling: Suitable for producing sheets, strips, and coils.
Drawing and Stamping: Used to create complex or deep-drawn parts.
Punching and Shearing: Components requiring precision cutting can be fabricated with proper tooling.
2. Work Hardening
416 stainless steel work hardens moderately during cold working.
Excessive deformation may require intermediate annealing to restore ductility.
Cold working increases tensile strength and hardness while reducing ductility.
3. Fabrication Considerations
Use gradual deformation to prevent cracking or distortion.
Ensure proper tooling and lubrication for smooth forming.
Cold-worked components may benefit from stress-relief heat treatment before service, especially in high-stress applications.
4. Applications Related to Cold Working
Precision gears, shafts, and fasteners
Valves, pumps, and fittings
Automotive components
Industrial machinery parts requiring dimensional accuracy and mechanical strength
Summary
416 stainless steel exhibits good cold working properties, allowing bending, rolling, drawing, and stamping. Cold working enhances strength and hardness but may require stress relief or intermediate annealing for extensive deformation. This makes 416 stainless steel suitable for precision components in industrial, automotive, and general engineering applications.
Heat Treatment
Heat Treatment of 416 Stainless Steel
416 stainless steel is a martensitic, high-carbon stainless steel that can be heat treated to enhance hardness, strength, and wear resistance. Heat treatment is essential for achieving the desired mechanical properties for precision components and industrial applications.
1. Annealing
Purpose: Relieve internal stresses from cold working or machining and restore ductility.
Temperature range: 815–900°C (1500–1650°F)
Cooling: Slow furnace cooling or air cooling, depending on desired properties.
2. Hardening (Quenching)
Purpose: Increase hardness and tensile strength for wear-resistant applications.
Temperature range: 980–1030°C (1800–1900°F)
Cooling: Rapid quenching in oil or water.
3. Tempering
Purpose: Reduce brittleness after hardening and improve toughness.
Temperature range: 150–370°C (300–700°F)
Achieves a balance of hardness, strength, and ductility suitable for precision components.
4. Stress Relief
Applied to machined or welded parts to minimize residual stress and prevent distortion.
Typically done at 425–650°C (800–1200°F) for moderate durations.
5. Applications Related to Heat Treatment
Precision gears, shafts, and fasteners
Valves, pumps, and fittings requiring high strength and wear resistance
Automotive components and industrial machinery parts
Summary
416 stainless steel can be annealed, hardened, tempered, and stress-relieved to achieve the desired combination of hardness, strength, and ductility. Proper heat treatment ensures durable, wear-resistant, and dimensionally stable components suitable for industrial, automotive, and precision applications.
Heat Resistance
Heat Resistance of 416 Stainless Steel
416 stainless steel is a martensitic, high-carbon stainless steel primarily designed for excellent machinability and mechanical strength. Its heat resistance is moderate compared to austenitic stainless steels, making it suitable for applications with intermittent or mild high-temperature exposure.
1. Continuous Service Temperature
Suitable for continuous service up to approximately 315°C (600°F).
Maintains mechanical properties in moderately elevated temperatures but is not ideal for prolonged high-temperature oxidizing environments.
2. Intermittent Exposure
Can tolerate short-term exposure up to around 425°C (800°F).
High temperatures beyond this may lead to loss of strength, hardness, and corrosion resistance.
3. Oxidation Resistance
Forms a thin chromium oxide layer that provides limited protection against oxidation.
Not recommended for high-temperature, aggressive oxidizing environments.
4. Applications Related to Heat Resistance
Automotive components with moderate thermal exposure
Valves, pumps, and fittings in industrial machinery
Precision components requiring moderate strength retention at elevated temperatures
Summary
416 stainless steel provides moderate heat resistance, suitable for applications with intermittent or mild elevated temperatures. Its combination of machinability, mechanical strength, and moderate thermal stability makes it ideal for industrial, automotive, and mechanical components that do not require prolonged exposure to high heat.
Hot Working
Hot Working of 416 Stainless Steel
416 stainless steel is a martensitic, high-carbon stainless steel with good machinability and moderate corrosion resistance. Hot working can be used to shape or form components while reducing the risk of cracking and improving ductility.
1. Recommended Hot Working Temperature
Optimal temperature range: 980–1150°C (1800–2100°F).
Working above this range can cause grain growth, reducing mechanical properties.
Working below this range may increase the risk of cracking.
2. Hot Working Processes
Forging: Suitable for producing shafts, gears, and thick components.
Hot Rolling: Used for plates, sheets, and strips.
Extrusion: Allows shaping of rods, bars, and complex profiles.
Hot Forming and Pressing: Enables production of large or intricate parts with minimal work hardening.
3. Advantages of Hot Working
Reduces work hardening compared to cold working.
Improves ductility and toughness, allowing for easier shaping of components.
Produces components with uniform mechanical properties throughout the part.
4. Post-Hot Working Treatment
Annealing may be applied to relieve stresses and restore ductility.
Pickling or passivation can enhance surface corrosion resistance if scale forms during hot working.
5. Applications Related to Hot Working
Industrial machinery components
Automotive parts requiring forging or extrusion
Shafts, gears, and precision components that require uniform mechanical properties
Summary
416 stainless steel exhibits good hot working properties, allowing forging, rolling, extrusion, and hot forming at 980–1150°C. Hot working improves ductility, reduces work hardening, and ensures uniform mechanical properties, making 416 stainless steel suitable for industrial, automotive, and precision components.
