Chemical Composition of Stainless Steel Y1Cr18Ni9 (AISI 303) and 18Ni9Se
Stainless steel is one of the most popular materials used in a wide range of applications, from automotive and aerospace to construction, medical, and power plants. The two stainless steels, Y1Cr18Ni9 (AISI 303) and 18Ni9Se, are two of the most common and well known stainless steels in use today. This article provides a short overview of the low temperature and cryogenic properties of the two stainless steels, as well as the chemical compositions which comprise them.
Y1Cr18Ni9 (AISI 303)
Y1Cr18Ni9 (AISI 303) is an austenitic stainless steel made of iron, 18% chromium, 8% nickel, and 1% yttrium. AISI 303 stainless steel is a corrosion and heat-resistant steel with a medium toughness and relatively high hardness. The high nickel content in AISI 303 increases its corrosion resistance and heat resistance compared to other stainless steels, making it a popular choice for applications such as food processing equipment, medical instrumentation and automotive parts. AISI 303 can be welded and machined for use in applications like ski bindings, elevator rollers, and conveyor rollers.
The chemical composition of Y1Cr18Ni9 (AISI 303) is as follows:
Iron - Balance
Chromium (Cr) - 17.00 - 19.00%
Nickel (Ni) - 7.00 - 10.00%
Yttrium (Y) - 0.20 - 0.60%
Carbon (C) - 0.15% max
Silicon (Si) - 1.00% max
18Ni9Se
18Ni9Se is a cast stainless steel made of iron, 18% nickel, and 9% selenium. 18Ni9Se has good cryogenic properties but has limited low-temperature toughness and is not recommended for temperatures below minus 80°C. 18Ni9Se is used for components that require a high corrosion resistance, such as offshore marine gear and hydroelectric pump components.
The chemical composition of 18Ni9Se is as follows:
Iron (Fe) - Balance
Nickel (Ni) - 17.00 - 20.00 %
Selenium (Se) - 8.0 -10.00 %
Carbon (C) - 0.12 % max
Manganese (Mn) - 0.4 % max
Silicon (Si) - 1.00 % max
Phosphorus (P) - 0.050 % max
Sulfur (S) - 0.030 % max
Conclusion
Y1Cr18Ni9 (AISI 303) and 18Ni9Se are two of the more commonly used stainless steels. Y1Cr18Ni9 (AISI 303) is known for its high corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and medium toughness, while 18Ni9Se is known for its good cryogenic properties but limited low-temperature toughness. Both of these stainless steels have distinct chemical compositions which give them their unique properties and make them suitable for various applications.