304 stainless steel is a general purpose grade. It is commonly used because it offers reasonable corrosion resistance, and is reasonably priced.
Applications
A variety of applications, including interior, and non-coastal exterior, or coastal exterior applications which are hidden from sight(as may tea stain).
316 stainless steel sometimes referred to as the “marine grade” because of its excellent corrosion resistance (better than 304).
Applications
Boat and marine applications, and exterior use near the coast(within 5km)
Bumax stainless steel is a 316 grade with extra molybdenum added. usually made to high strength classes 80 and 100 and has excellent corrosion resistance.
Applications
Where high strength and excellent corrosion resistance is required.
310 stainless steel used for high-temperature applications.
Applications
Furnaces and locations of extreme heat.
410 stainless steel is a martensitic grade that can be hardened by heat treatment.
Applications
Self drilling screws in non- coastal and less corrosive environments
420 stainless steel is a nickel free grade with high carbon. It is stronger than 410.
Applications
Spring pin in less corrosive environments.
Hardtec stainless steel is a martensitic ally like 410 so can be hardened with heat treatment, but has molybdenum added and so offers much better corrosion resistance (similar to 304 grade).
Application
Self drilling screws
2205 stainless steel is duplex stainless steel – high strength properties and high corrosion resistance.
Application
Situations requiring high strength and corrosion resistance – such as keel bolts.
2507 stainless steel is Super duplex stainless steel – high strength properties and high corrosion resistance.
Application
Situations requiring high strength and very high corrosion resistance such as constant salt water immersion.
17-4PH stainless steel. Chromium – copper precipitation hardened stainless steel used for applications requiring high strength and a moderate level of corrosion resistance.
Application
High strength application.
