Sulphur Content in Laser Welding

[cjholl0]

I've been told the sulphur content must be very low to weld 303 stainless steel (maybe .2 max). Getting 303 with this low of a sulphur content is very difficult. Does anybody know how low you have to go to weld with 303? Could a process parameter compensate for higher sulphur?

Thanks

 

[EdStainless]

Why 303? There is a lot of controled microstructure 304 made with about 0.020% S. This is enough to help machinability but not destroy welding or corrosion resistance.

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[cjholl0]

303 is what we're currently using (wasn't my idea). I'd like to pursue other options because we're having a rough time getting 303 with .2max Sulphur. Do you think 304 is easily available with .2Su? Have a contact at a supplier? I appreciate your input.

 

[kenvlach]

cjholl0,
No 304 with 0.2% S, since 304 has the limit of 0.030% S, maximum.
303 contains 0.15% S, minimum, usually ~0.3%.

Carpenter Technology has improved machining versions of 304 & other SS, within the standard composition limits so no welding problems. Register at their website (free) & download info:

Carpenter Project 70+® Stainless Machining Bar Brochure(6 pages)
Guide to Machining Carpenter Specialty Alloys (170 pages)
"Project 70+ Type 304/304L stainless has been engineered to reduce tool wear as well as increase machine speeds and feeds that help improve productivity while reducing part costs. This patented alloy is an improvedmachining version of conventional Stainless Type 304/304L."

http://www.cartech.com/sao_products/wr_sao_product.html?leftn=sao_products&lefto=empty&lefti=sao_ps0

 

[EdStainless]

The other material that I had in mind was Outokumpu Prodec. This a 304 with about 0.020%S. This stuff machines like 303, but welds and resists corrosion like regular 304.

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Rust never sleeps
Neither should your protection

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