1. What is EN 10297 X3CrNiMo17-13-3?
Answer:
EN 10297 X3CrNiMo17-13-3 is a low-carbon austenitic stainless steel seamless tube standardized under EN 10297. It is a variant of AISI 316L with optimized corrosion resistance and weldability.
Key Composition: 17% Cr, 13% Ni, 3% Mo, and ultra-low carbon (≤0.03%) to prevent sensitization.
Equivalent Grades: UNS S31603 (316L), DIN 1.4432.
Key Feature: Superior resistance to intergranular corrosion and stress corrosion cracking (SCC).
2. What are the mechanical properties?
Answer (annealed condition):
Tensile Strength: 500–700 MPa
Yield Strength (0.2% offset): ≥200 MPa
Elongation: ≥40%
Hardness: ≤215 HB
Note: The low carbon content ensures ductility and toughness even in welded structures.
3. How does it differ from X2CrNiMoN17-13-3 (316LN)?
Answer:
Nitrogen Content: X3CrNiMo17-13-3 lacks nitrogen, resulting in lower yield strength (200 MPa vs. 250+ MPa for 316LN) but better weldability.
Applications: Preferred for thick-walled welded components where sensitization is a concern (e.g., chemical tanks).
Cost: More economical than nitrogen-enhanced grades.
4. What are the fabrication guidelines?
Answer:
Welding: Use TIG/MIG with ER316L filler. No post-weld heat treatment required.
Machining: Softer than nitrogen-stabilized grades; standard carbide tools suffice.
Corrosion Protection: Avoid temperatures of 450–850°C to prevent carbide precipitation.
5. Where is this grade commonly used?
Answer:
Chemical Industry: Piping for acetic acid, phosphoric acid, and chloride-rich media.
Pharmaceutical: Sterilizable equipment (biocompatible, non-reactive).
Marine: Heat exchangers and desalination systems.
Food Processing: Hygienic tubing for corrosive foodstuffs.
