Stainless Steel, Austenitic
S310H Stainless Steel (S31009) Pipe & Fittings
A high carbon modification of 310 developed for enhanced creep resistance.
Alloy 310 (UNS S31000) is an austenitic stainless steel developed for use in high temperature corrosion resistant applications. The alloy resists oxidation up to 2010°F (1100°C) under mildly cyclic conditions.
310H stainless steel is a high-carbon, austenitic stainless steel designed for excellent high-temperature strength and oxidation resistance. The “H” in 310H indicates a higher carbon content, which improves its creep resistance at elevated temperatures compared to standard 310 stainless steel.
This steel is widely used in high-temperature industrial applications, such as furnaces, heat exchangers, and thermal processing equipment, where it maintains mechanical integrity and corrosion resistance under prolonged exposure to heat and oxidizing environments.
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Related Specifications
- 310H / UNS S31009
- X15CrNi25-20 / 1.4845
- S31009
- SS310H
Properties
Chemical Composition
S31009 Pipe
ASTM A312
| Chemical Element | % Present |
| Carbon (C) | 0.04 - 0.10 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 24.00 - 26.00 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 19.00 - 22.00 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.00 - 2.00 |
| Phosphorous (P) | 0.00 - 0.05 |
| Sulphur (S) | 0.00 - 0.03 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.00 - 1.00 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
Mechanical Properties
Pipe
ASTM A312
| Mechanical Property | Value |
| Proof Stress | 205 Min MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 515 Min MPa |
| Elongation A50 mm | 35 Min % |
Applications of 310H Stainless Steel
310H stainless steel is a high-carbon, austenitic stainless steel with excellent high-temperature strength and oxidation resistance. Its combination of mechanical integrity and corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures makes it ideal for industrial applications exposed to heat and oxidizing environments.
1. High-Temperature Industrial Applications
Furnace components such as retorts, trays, and baskets
Kiln parts and heat treatment equipment
Boiler and heat exchanger components exposed to prolonged high temperatures
Thermal processing equipment in chemical, petrochemical, and power industries
2. Petrochemical and Chemical Industry
Piping, tanks, and vessels for high-temperature chemical processes
Components handling oxidizing gases or high-temperature vapors
Industrial reactors and processing equipment operating under thermal stress
3. Other Applications
Aerospace and automotive components exposed to high-temperature exhaust or heat
Incinerators and combustion chambers
High-temperature structural parts in industrial machinery
Summary
310H stainless steel is used in applications that require high-temperature strength, creep resistance, and oxidation resistance. Its high-carbon, austenitic structure makes it suitable for furnaces, boilers, heat exchangers, chemical equipment, and industrial machinery exposed to extreme heat and oxidizing environments.
Characteristics of 310H Stainless Steel
310H stainless steel is a high-carbon, austenitic stainless steel known for its excellent high-temperature strength, oxidation resistance, and creep resistance. The elevated carbon content provides improved performance in prolonged high-temperature applications, especially compared to standard 310 stainless steel.
1. High-Temperature Strength
Maintains mechanical integrity at very high temperatures.
Suitable for continuous service up to approximately 1030°C (1885°F) and intermittent exposure up to 1100°C (2010°F).
Higher carbon content enhances creep resistance for prolonged high-temperature operation.
2. Oxidation and Scaling Resistance
Forms a stable chromium oxide layer that protects against scaling in oxidizing atmospheres.
Performs well in furnace, boiler, and thermal processing applications.
3. Corrosion Resistance
Good resistance to general corrosion in oxidizing environments.
Titanium and other stabilizing elements prevent sensitization, minimizing intergranular corrosion in welded components.
4. Mechanical Properties
Excellent ductility and toughness even at elevated temperatures.
Maintains structural stability under thermal stress and high loads.
5. Fabrication and Weldability
Can be welded using conventional methods, though careful control of heat input is recommended to avoid excessive grain growth.
May require post-weld heat treatment in certain high-temperature applications.
6. Applications Related to Characteristics
Furnace components and heat treatment equipment
Boilers, heat exchangers, and thermal processing machinery
Aerospace and automotive components exposed to high temperatures
Industrial piping and structural parts for high-temperature service
Summary
310H stainless steel is characterized by high-temperature strength, creep resistance, oxidation resistance, and good weldability. Its high-carbon, austenitic structure makes it ideal for furnaces, boilers, heat exchangers, chemical processing equipment, and other industrial applications exposed to extreme heat.
Additional Information
Fabrication
Fabrication of 310H Stainless Steel
310H stainless steel is a high-carbon, austenitic stainless steel with excellent high-temperature strength, oxidation resistance, and creep resistance. Fabrication techniques are similar to other austenitic stainless steels, but attention must be paid to high-temperature performance, weldability, and work hardening.
1. Forming
Cold Working:
Can be bent, rolled, or deep-drawn, but work hardens rapidly.
Intermediate annealing may be required for extensive forming to restore ductility.
Hot Working:
Performed at 1150–900°C (2100–1650°F) to reduce work hardening and improve formability.
Suitable for forging, rolling, and extrusion of large or complex parts.
2. Welding
Can be welded using TIG, MIG, SMAW, or FCAW.
High-carbon content increases the risk of sensitization in some cases; preheating and controlled heat input may be recommended.
Post-weld solution annealing can restore high-temperature properties and reduce residual stresses.
3. Machining
Machinability is moderate, with rapid work hardening.
Use sharp carbide tools, proper feed rates, and coolant for best results.
Suitable for industrial components requiring precision fabrication.
4. Post-Fabrication Treatments
Annealing: Restores ductility and relieves stresses from cold working or welding.
Pickling or passivation: Removes scale or oxide layers and improves corrosion resistance.
5. Applications Related to Fabrication
Furnace components, heat treatment equipment, and kiln parts
Boilers, heat exchangers, and industrial piping
Aerospace and automotive components exposed to high-temperature service
Structural parts for chemical, petrochemical, and power generation industries
Summary
310H stainless steel is highly fabricable using conventional forming, welding, and machining techniques. Careful control of heat input, work hardening, and post-fabrication treatments ensures high-temperature strength, corrosion resistance, and dimensional stability for furnaces, boilers, heat exchangers, and industrial machinery.
Weldability
Weldability of 310H Stainless Steel
310H stainless steel is a high-carbon, austenitic stainless steel with excellent high-temperature strength and oxidation resistance. Its weldability is good, but the high carbon content requires careful control of welding procedures to maintain mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
1. General Weldability
Can be welded using standard fusion welding methods:
TIG (GTAW)
MIG (GMAW)
SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding)
FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding)
Suitable for joining components in high-temperature and industrial applications.
2. Considerations for Welding
High carbon content increases the risk of sensitization, which can lead to intergranular corrosion if exposed to corrosive environments.
Controlled heat input and preheating may be required for thick sections to minimize distortion and reduce residual stresses.
Use proper filler metals (commonly 310 or 310H) to maintain high-temperature properties and corrosion resistance.
3. Post-Weld Treatment
Solution annealing may be applied to restore high-temperature strength and ductility.
Pickling and passivation can remove surface oxides formed during welding and improve corrosion resistance.
4. Applications Related to Weldability
Furnace and kiln components
Heat exchangers and boiler parts
High-temperature piping and tanks in chemical and petrochemical industries
Industrial structural parts requiring welded joints for high-temperature service
Summary
310H stainless steel has good weldability using standard techniques, but attention must be paid to carbon content, heat input, and post-weld treatments. Proper welding ensures strong, corrosion-resistant joints suitable for high-temperature industrial, chemical, and power generation applications.
Machinability
Machinability of 310H Stainless Steel
310H stainless steel is a high-carbon, austenitic stainless steel with excellent high-temperature strength and oxidation resistance. Like other austenitic stainless steels, it exhibits moderate to low machinability due to its tendency to work harden rapidly.
1. Work Hardening
310H stainless steel work hardens quickly, especially during light cuts or interrupted cuts.
Excessive work hardening can cause tool wear, poor surface finish, and dimensional inaccuracies.
Use sharp cutting tools and proper feeds to minimize work hardening.
2. Tooling Recommendations
Carbide tools are preferred for efficient cutting and longer tool life.
High-speed steel (HSS) tools may be used at lower cutting speeds.
Ensure rigid fixturing to reduce vibration and improve machining accuracy.
3. Cutting Conditions
Moderate to low cutting speeds are recommended to prevent overheating.
Use adequate coolant or lubrication to dissipate heat and reduce tool wear.
Employ proper feed rates and depth of cut to maintain surface quality.
4. Chip Formation
Produces long, ductile chips due to the austenitic structure.
Use chip breakers or controlled cutting techniques to manage chips effectively.
5. Applications Related to Machinability
Industrial components requiring high-temperature performance and corrosion resistance
Heat exchangers, boiler components, and furnace parts
Aerospace and automotive high-temperature components
Chemical processing equipment requiring precise machining
Summary
310H stainless steel has moderate machinability, with a high tendency to work harden. Using proper tooling, cutting conditions, and coolant ensures efficient machining and good surface finish. Its combination of machinability, high-temperature strength, and corrosion resistance makes it suitable for industrial, chemical, power generation, and high-temperature applications.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion Resistance of 310H Stainless Steel
310H stainless steel is a high-carbon, austenitic stainless steel known for its excellent corrosion resistance, particularly in high-temperature and oxidizing environments. Its chemical composition ensures protection against various forms of corrosion while maintaining mechanical integrity under thermal stress.
1. General Corrosion Resistance
Resists oxidation and scaling in air and industrial atmospheres at elevated temperatures.
Performs well in mild chemical environments.
Suitable for long-term exposure in industrial, chemical, and petrochemical applications.
2. High-Temperature Corrosion Resistance
Titanium stabilization and high chromium content help prevent sensitization and intergranular corrosion after welding or heat treatment.
Can withstand oxidizing environments at temperatures up to 1030°C (1885°F) continuous and 1100°C (2010°F) intermittent.
Forms a stable chromium oxide layer that protects against scaling and localized attack.
3. Resistance to Localized Corrosion
Good resistance to crevice and pitting corrosion under oxidizing conditions.
Less suitable for chloride-rich environments at high temperatures, where stress corrosion cracking may occur.
4. Applications Related to Corrosion Resistance
Furnace and kiln components
Heat exchangers and boilers in chemical and petrochemical industries
High-temperature piping and tanks
Aerospace and automotive components exposed to oxidizing gases or exhaust
Summary
310H stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance, especially in high-temperature and oxidizing environments. Titanium stabilization and high chromium content ensure resistance to intergranular corrosion and scaling, making 310H ideal for furnaces, boilers, heat exchangers, and industrial equipment exposed to extreme heat.
Cold Working
Cold Working of 310H Stainless Steel
310H stainless steel is a high-carbon, austenitic stainless steel with good ductility, allowing various cold working operations. Cold working increases strength through work hardening but requires careful handling due to the steel’s high-carbon and austenitic structure.
1. Common Cold Working Processes
Bending and Forming: Suitable for shaping furnace parts, heat exchangers, and piping.
Rolling: Produces sheets, strips, and coils.
Deep Drawing and Stamping: Used for containers, trays, and intricate components.
Punching and Shearing: Applicable for industrial and chemical equipment components.
2. Work Hardening
310H stainless steel work hardens rapidly, increasing tensile and yield strength during deformation.
Excessive cold working may reduce ductility.
Intermediate annealing is recommended after extensive forming to restore ductility and relieve stresses.
3. Fabrication Considerations
Apply gradual deformation to avoid cracking or overstressing the material.
Use proper tooling, lubrication, and support to maintain surface finish and dimensional accuracy.
Cold-worked components may require stress relief if used in high-temperature or structural applications.
4. Applications Related to Cold Working
Furnace components and heat treatment equipment
Industrial piping, tanks, and structural parts for chemical and petrochemical applications
Components requiring corrosion resistance and dimensional stability after forming
Summary
310H stainless steel exhibits good cold working characteristics, allowing bending, rolling, deep drawing, and stamping. Cold working improves strength through work hardening while maintaining corrosion resistance, making it suitable for furnaces, boilers, heat exchangers, and other industrial high-temperature applications.
Heat Treatment
Heat Treatment of 310H Stainless Steel
310H stainless steel is a high-carbon, austenitic stainless steel designed for high-temperature applications. Its heat treatment is primarily aimed at relieving stresses, restoring ductility, and optimizing high-temperature performance, rather than increasing hardness, as austenitic stainless steels are not hardenable by conventional heat treatment.
1. Solution Annealing
Purpose: Restore ductility, relieve residual stresses from fabrication or welding, and maintain high-temperature strength.
Temperature range: 1040–1120°C (1900–2050°F)
Cooling: Rapid air or water quenching to preserve corrosion resistance and prevent sensitization.
2. Stress Relief
Purpose: Reduce residual stresses from welding, cold working, or machining.
Temperature range: 450–650°C (840–1200°F)
Enhances dimensional stability and reduces risk of stress-related cracking.
3. Effects of Heat Treatment
Restores ductility and toughness in cold-worked or welded areas.
Relieves internal stresses, improving high-temperature performance.
Does not significantly increase strength, as 310H is not precipitation-hardenable.
4. Surface Treatment Post Heat
Pickling or passivation may be applied after heat treatment to remove scale or oxide layers and restore the protective chromium oxide surface.
5. Applications Related to Heat Treatment
Furnace and kiln components
Heat exchangers and boiler parts
Industrial piping and tanks exposed to high temperatures
Chemical, petrochemical, and power generation equipment requiring thermal stability
Summary
Heat treatment of 310H stainless steel focuses on solution annealing and stress relief, maintaining ductility, corrosion resistance, and high-temperature performance. Proper heat treatment ensures reliable service in furnaces, boilers, heat exchangers, and other industrial high-temperature applications.
Heat Resistance
Heat Resistance of 310H Stainless Steel
310H stainless steel is a high-carbon, austenitic stainless steel designed for excellent high-temperature strength and oxidation resistance. Its high carbon content provides enhanced creep resistance for prolonged service at elevated temperatures.
1. Continuous Service Temperature
Suitable for continuous service in oxidizing atmospheres up to 1030°C (1885°F).
Maintains mechanical strength, creep resistance, and corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures.
2. Intermittent Exposure
Can withstand short-term or intermittent exposure up to 1100°C (2010°F) without significant scaling or degradation.
Suitable for components exposed to thermal cycling or fluctuating high temperatures.
3. Oxidation and Scaling Resistance
Forms a stable chromium oxide layer that protects against oxidation and scaling.
Titanium stabilization and high chromium content prevent sensitization and intergranular corrosion after welding or high-temperature service.
4. Limitations
Not recommended for prolonged exposure to high-chloride environments, where stress corrosion cracking may occur.
Extreme thermal shocks should be avoided to prevent thermal fatigue.
5. Applications Related to Heat Resistance
Furnace and kiln components
Heat exchangers, boilers, and thermal processing equipment
Petrochemical and chemical industry high-temperature piping and tanks
Aerospace and automotive components exposed to extreme heat
Summary
310H stainless steel provides excellent heat resistance, maintaining strength, creep resistance, and corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures up to 1030°C continuous and 1100°C intermittent. Its combination of oxidation resistance and high-temperature performance makes it ideal for industrial, chemical, petrochemical, and high-temperature applications.
Hot Working
Hot Working of 310H Stainless Steel
310H stainless steel is a high-carbon, austenitic stainless steel with excellent high-temperature strength and oxidation resistance. Hot working allows the steel to be shaped and formed at elevated temperatures while minimizing work hardening and preserving mechanical and corrosion-resistant properties.
1. Recommended Hot Working Temperature
Hot working range: 1150–900°C (2100–1650°F).
Maintaining proper temperature prevents grain growth, ensures uniform mechanical properties, and preserves high-temperature performance.
2. Hot Working Processes
Hot Rolling: Produces sheets, plates, and strips with uniform thickness.
Forging: Suitable for structural and high-temperature components.
Extrusion: Allows production of rods, tubes, and complex profiles.
Hot Forming and Pressing: Enables shaping of large or intricate parts with minimal cracking risk.
3. Advantages of Hot Working
Reduces work hardening compared to cold working.
Improves ductility, toughness, and formability.
Allows production of large, thick, or complex components for high-temperature service.
4. Post-Hot Working Treatments
Annealing may be applied to relieve residual stresses and restore uniform mechanical properties.
Pickling or passivation improves surface corrosion resistance after hot working.
5. Applications Related to Hot Working
Furnace and kiln components
Boilers, heat exchangers, and high-temperature piping
Industrial equipment for chemical and petrochemical processes
Aerospace and automotive parts requiring high-temperature performance
Summary
310H stainless steel exhibits excellent hot working characteristics, allowing forging, rolling, extrusion, and forming at 1150–900°C. Hot working enhances ductility, reduces work hardening, and enables the production of parts for furnaces, boilers, heat exchangers, and industrial high-temperature applications.
