316 versus 430 SS application

[schnipp]

Where would I find relative differences between 316 and 430 stainless?

I have a basket centrifuge that we currently use 316 SS perforated screen and wire mesh backing that we want to consider using 430 series stainless due to the higher magnetic property (food grade application).

The question was posed about the brittleness and maleability between the two as it takes a fair amount of tugging and pulling to get the perforated screen installed. Since the mechanic is inside the basket of a centrifuge, there isn't always the most room to get a good grip.

Thanks for the assistance.

 

[EdStainless]

I suppose that your supplier has offered this alternative. If so you should ask them for some actual test reports on the properties of the alloys.
The properties for 430 can cover a very wide range depending on the Carbon content and heat treatment.
430 will be much more ferromagnetic than 316.
430 will have less corrosion resistance than 316, more similar to 304.
430 will have less ductility than 316, but it may not be enough less to matter.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Plymouth Tube

 

[schnipp]

The greater ferromagnetic is what we're after, so that magnets down stream capture anything that may be shed in the centrifuge.
The corrosion resistance isn't a concern, as the product is not that corrosive.
If the ductility isn't that much less than the 316 we're currently using, we should be fine.

The supplier currently sells 430 in increasing amounts to other users, so I'm optimistic it will work.

We're going to try a few and see how they hold up and go from there.

Thanks for the reply, EdStainless.

 

[EdStainless]

Are these screens welded to frames?
If so insist on seeing mechanical property tests for the welds.
This may be easier to pull out later, but that is no reason to accept the risk of having more metal end up in the system due to breakage.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Plymouth Tube

 

[schnipp]

No, the speeds in the centrifuge pretty much set them in (~1200 rpm). Metal ends up in the process if something goes wrong, usually a plow tip goes a little deeper than it is supposed to.

 

[unclesyd]

Please do not attempt to weld 430 SS. I weld and HAZ will be very brittle after welding without heat treatment.

Could you possibly state what your process material is as 430 SS is very good in some services and extremely poor in others?

 

[schnipp]

We're processing crystalline destrose. We don't weld the screens in, the screen folds and essentially snaps into place.