Stainless steel is a widely used material with excellent corrosion resistance, strength, and durability. It is used extensively in various industries, from construction and automotive to aerospace and medical. However, with so many different types of stainless steel available, taking the time for your application can take time and effort. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between stainless steel 347 and 347H to help you make an informed decision.
Difference Between Stainless Steel 347 and 347H
Chemical Composition:
Stainless steel 347 and 347H contain similar chemical compositions, but the difference lies in the amount of carbon in the alloy. Stainless steel 347 contains 0.08% maximum carbon, whereas the carbon content in 347H is between 0.04% and 0.10%. This slight difference in carbon content results in different mechanical properties.
Mechanical Properties:
Stainless steel 347 and 347H have good tensile and yield strength at room temperature. However, 347H has higher tensile and yield strength, especially at elevated temperatures. This makes 347H ideal for high-temperature applications, such as heat exchangers and furnace parts.
Weldability:
Stainless steel 347 and 347H are both excellent materials for welding. However, the higher carbon content in 347H may make it more susceptible to sensitization and intergranular corrosion during welding. To avoid these issues, using low-carbon content filler materials, such as 347L or 308L, is essential.
Heat Treatment:
Stainless steel 347 and 347H can be heat treated, but the heat treatment process for each material is different. Heat treatment 347 involves annealing between 1850°F and 2050°F, followed by quenching to improve its toughness. In contrast, 347H is typically annealed at temperatures between 1950°F and 2150°F to improve its high-temperature strength.
Applications:
Stainless steel 347 is a versatile material used in various industries, such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and food and beverage. It is often used for pipe and tubing, heat exchangers, and pressure vessels. On the other hand, stainless steel 347H is ideal for high-temperature applications, such as furnace parts, heat exchangers, and chemical reactors.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, stainless steel 347 and 347H are excellent materials that offer unique properties for specific applications. Understanding the differences between the two materials is crucial in selecting the right product for your needs. While both materials have similar chemical compositions, the differences in carbon content, mechanical properties, weldability, heat treatment, and applications make them distinct. Regardless of your application, both types of stainless steel are readily available, making it easy to choose the right product for your specific needs.
