Introduction of AISI 304LN X15CrNiMn18-8
AISI 304LN X15CrNiMn18-8 is a low carbon austenitic stainless steel. The steel is also known as 304LN (sensitization-resistant). It contains18% chromium, 8% nickel and a maximum of 0.040% nitrogen.
The nitrogen in AISI 304LN X15CrNiMn18-8 enhances the corrosion resistance and formability of the steel. This stainless steel is widely used for multiple purposes, including the production of oil housings and containers for chemotherapy, for food production and for processing of highly chlorinated hydrocarbons, such as hexachlorobutadiene.
AISI 304LN X15CrNiMn18-8 has a higher tensile strength than that of the standard 304 stainless steel grade. This makes it suitable for multiple constructions as well as applications that require welding. One of the major benefits of this stainless steel is its “low coefficient of expansion”, which enables it to maintain tight tolerances with less risk of distortions during fabrication and installation.
The increased nitrogen content in the steel is the reason why it has good resistance to sensitization. This is significant, because sensitization can lead to precipitation of chromium carbides, which would otherwise compromise the corrosion-resisting properties of the stainless steel.
X15CrNiMn18-8 is popular as an inexpensive alternative to stainless steel 304. It has good formability and weldability, which makes it suitable for a wide range of applications including chemical tanker storage tanks, kitchen fittings, oil storage tanks, and industrial heat exchangers.
The steel tends to have superior environmental fatigue resistance to other steels. It is also more tolerant to high temperatures, which makes it the ideal material for applications that involve high-temperature environments. For example, AISI 304LN X15CrNiMn18-8 is a popular choice for furnace windings, oven linings, and other applications that require high-temperature performance.
AISI 304LN X15CrNiMn18-8 has good workability and it can easily be formed into different shapes. It also has good polishing properties, which makes it an ideal choice for applications that require an attractive surface finish, such as kitchen and bathroom fittings.
Unlike other stainless steels, AISI 304LN X15CrNiMn18-8 is not usually used in applications that require extreme levels of strength or hardness. This is because the nitrogen alloying element adds a certain amount of softness to the steel.
In conclusion, AISI 304LN X15CrNiMn18-8 is a low carbon austenitic stainless steel that is well suited for many different applications. It has superior environmental fatigue resistance and a higher tensile strength than standard 304 stainless steel grades. It has good formability, weldability and excellent polishing properties. It is an ideal choice for oven linings, furnaces windings and other high-temperature applications.
