AISI317 and AISI317L Stainless Steels
AISI317 and AISI317L are two stainless steels with similar alloying compositions. They are both classified by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) as Heat Resisting Chromium-Nickel-Molybdenum Steels due to their high amounts of chromium and molybdenum in the alloy, balanced with a low carbon content. Alloy content and its effects on mechanical properties are their major differences.
Chemical Composition
AISI317 has a nominal composition of 0.08 % carbon, 19.0 – 20.0 % chromium, 1.0 – 2.5 % molybdenum, 13.0 % nickel, and remaining iron. AISI317L is a low-carbon version of AISI317; its nominal composition is 0.03 % carbon, 19.0 – 20.0 % chromium, 1.0 – 2.5 % molybdenum, 13.0 % nickel, and remaining iron.
These two alloys contain similar, relatively high levels of chromium and molybdenum, which the AISI and ASTM require for heat-resistant chromium-nickel-molybdenum steels. Alloying with this combination of elements is intended to improve wear and corrosion resistance, making these alloys suitable for use in chemical processes as well as in aggressive and harsh physical treatments.
Differences in Physical Properties
Due to their different chemical composition, the physical and mechanical properties of AISI317 and AISI317L differ. AISI317 has a higher strength than AISI317L due to its higher carbon content. In addition, AISI317’s toughness is enhanced compared to AISI317L because of this higher carbon content.
AISI317L’s lower carbon content allows it to be easier to weld and heat treat than AISI317. After annealing, AISI317L displays improved toughness compared to AISI317 due to its reduced carbon content. This lower carbon content has the added benefit of improving its corrosion resistance when compared with AISI317.
Applications
AISI317 and AISI317L are used in many industrial applications. AISI317L is used in applications such as petrochemical processing, chemical processing, food processing, and pharmaceutical production. Due to its superior strength and toughness, AISI317 is better suited for electric industries and power plants.
In summary, AISI317 and AIS I317L are two steels classified by the American Iron and Steel Institute as heat-resisting steels. Both have similar alloying compositions with high amounts of chromium and molybdenum, balanced with a low carbon content. Differences in their physical properties arise from their different carbon content. AISI317 is mainly used in areas that require higher strength and toughness due its higher carbon content. AISI317L’s lower carbon content makes it better suited for applications requiring improved weldability and heat treating capability. In addition, due to its lower carbon content, AISI317L has improved corrosion resistance compared to AISI317.