stability of large 316 S.S. plates

[SFK8W4]

Would stress relieving be recommended before machining large 316 S.S. plates? (4" x 24" x 64")
I will be machining approx. 1/2" off the thickness and cutting a pocket 1/4" deep x 20" wide x 60" long on one face.

 

[EdStainless]

How flat is it now?
How did they get it flat?
How flat are you trying to keep it?

The problem is that you can't really stress relieve SS. You can anneal it, but if you cool unevenly form anneal the stresses are back. You might be better off leaving it alone and re-flattening as needed.

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