The development and production of the 400 series stainless was initiated in the 1920’s and continued to evolve over the following decades. The development of stainless steel alloys, including those in the 400 series, can be traced back to the early 20th century. Today, 400 Series Stainless Steel is manufactured by a number of steel producers around the world – of which Columbus Stainless in South Africa, ThyssenKrupp in Germany, to name a few.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 300 SERIES STAINLESS & 400 SERIES STAINLESS

• PRICE
400 Series stainless is notably less expensive than 300 series stainless as it contains little to no nickel, which is a very costly alloying element, whereas the 300 Series stainless contains significant amounts of nickel, typically between 8-10.5%, which increases its cost. The cost of nickel experienced a significant increase around 2020 due to a combination of factors, including increased demand from the electric vehicle (EV) industry, supply disruptions, and global economic conditions.
The combination of increased demand from the EV industry, supply disruptions, and global economic conditions all contributed to the sharp increase in nickel prices in 2020. The rapidly growing EV industry, which relies heavily on nickel in its batteries such as Tesla, General Motors, and Volkswagen – all announced plans to significantly increase their EV production in the coming years, pushing increased demand for nickel resulting in upward pressure on its price.
Global economic conditions in 2020, such as low interest rates and inflation concerns, led investors to seek out alternative investments, such as commodities like nickel. This increased investment demand for nickel futures contracts, further driving up its price. The nickel production was grossly disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to mine closures, reduced production, and logistical challenges in the nickel supply chain. Additionally, political instability in key nickel-producing countries, such as Indonesia and the Philippines, further disrupted supply and contributed to higher prices.

• MECHANICAL PROPERTIES:
The main differences between 300 series and 400 series stainless steel are their chemical composition, corrosion resistance, strength, and hardness. The 300 series stainless is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, high-temperature strength, and good ductility, while 400 series stainless steel is known for its high strength and hardness. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements of the application. 300 Series stainless steel contains chromium and nickel in varying amounts, with austenitic structures – thus non-magnetic, whereas the 400 series stainless, will prove to be magnetic.

Corrosion Resistance: 300 series stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance, especially against chemicals and acidic environments. In contrast, 400 series stainless steel has moderate to low corrosion resistance, especially against acidic environments. The selection of the appropriate material for a specific shim application will depend on factors such as the required strength, corrosion resistance, and temperature resistance. 400 Series stainless steel may have issues in environments that are highly acidic or contain chlorides. These environments can cause the material to corrode and degrade over time. Chloride-containing environments, such as seawater or salt spray, can also cause pitting corrosion in 400 series stainless steel, which can weaken the material and lead to failure.

Heat Resistance: 300 series stainless steel has excellent high-temperature strength and can withstand extreme heat conditions without losing its structural integrity. 400 Series stainless steel is less resistant to high-temperature environments, and prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause it to weaken. 400 Series stainless steel may have problems in high-temperature environments. Prolonged exposure to temperatures above 400-500°C (750-930°F) can cause the material to lose its strength and become more susceptible to deformation and failure.
Strength and Hardness: 400 series stainless steel has higher strength and hardness than 300 series stainless steel. It is often used in applications where high strength and durability are required. However, 300 series stainless steel has better ductility and is more malleable, making it easier to form and shape.

Applications: 300 series stainless steel is commonly used in applications where corrosion resistance is critical. 400 Series stainless steel is commonly used in applications where high strength and hardness are required, keeping in mind that the 400 series stainless steel may have problems in high-temperature environments, as prolonged exposure to temperatures above 400-500°C (750-930°F) can cause the material to lose its strength and become more susceptible to deformation and failure.

• CONCLUSION:

400 Series stainless shims will be suitable for most environments due to its high strength, hardness, and durability, whereas 300 series stainless shims, will be more suitable for chemical processing plants as well as exposure to high temperature environments.

** BOTH 300 AND 400 SERIES PRE-CUT SHIM RANGE – NOW CARRIED EX-STOCK – AVAILABLE STRAIGT OFF THE SHELF **

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