Alloy 321 Stainless Steel:

Alloy 321 stainless steel stands out as a specialized alloy catering to the demands of high-temperature
environments. Its unique composition, coupled with titanium stabilization, allows it to maintain strength,
corrosion resistance, and toughness across a broad temperature spectrum, making it a preferred material for
critical applications in various Industries.

Alloy 321 Stainless Steel Technical Overview:

Composition and Stabilization:

Alloy 321 stainless steel is a titanium-stabilized grade, featuring enhanced resistance to corrosion, particularly in
the temperature range of 538-870°C. The titanium addition aids in preventing sensitization, which is the
formation of chromium carbide at grain boundaries, thus improving its performance in elevated temperatures.

Temperature Range and Stabilizing Treatment:

This alloy is specifically designed for service in the temperature range of 538-870°C. To optimize its resistance to
intergranular corrosion in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) and polythionic acid stress corrosion cracking, a
stabilizing treatment is recommended. This treatment involves heating the alloy within the range of 842-899°C
followed by air cooling.

Composition:
Alloy 321 is an austenitic stainless steel primarily composed of chromium, nickel, and titanium. The inclusion of
titanium distinguishes it from standard 304 and 316 stainless steels, imparting enhanced performance
characteristics.

Temperature Range:
This alloy is designed to excel in elevated-temperature applications, offering outstanding performance up to
870°C (1600°F). Its ability to maintain structural integrity and resist corrosion in such high-temperature
environments makes it suitable for various industrial applications.

Strength and Corrosion Resistance:

Alloy 321 exhibits robust strength and corrosion resistance, crucial properties for applications exposed to
extreme temperatures. Its resistance to oxidation and scale formation at elevated temperatures contributes to its
longevity and reliability in demanding conditions.

Low-Temperature Characteristics:
In addition to its high-temperature capabilities, Alloy 321 maintains its strength and toughness at sub-zero
temperatures. This versatility makes it suitable for applications where exposure to both high and low
temperatures is a factor.

Titanium Stabilization:
The presence of titanium serves as a stabilizing element, mitigating the formation of chromium carbides at grain
boundaries during exposure to elevated temperatures. This, in turn, enhances the alloy's resistance to
intergranular corrosion, contributing to its durability in service.

Fabrication and Weldability:

Alloy 321 demonstrates good fabricability and weldability. It can be easily formed, machined, and welded using
common methods. This makes it a practical choice for manufacturers requiring a material that is both versatile
and reliable in processing.

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS

PRINCE K. SINGH
APPLICATIONS
Alloy 321 is widely used in industries such as aerospace, chemical processing, and thermal processing
equipment due to its unique combination of high-temperature strength and corrosion resistance. It is particularly
valuable in applications where cyclic heating and cooling are prevalent.

Aircraft piston engine manifolds

Expansion joints
Thermal oxidizers
Refinery equipment
High-temperature chemical process equipment

PROPERTIES

Density: 7.916 g/cm³

Melting range: 1400 –1427°C

MECHANICAL & PHYSICAL PROPERTIESCAL & PHYSICAL PROPERTIES 20°C 93°C 204°C 316°C 427°C 538°C 649°C 760°C
871°C

STRESS RUPTURE AND CREEP PROPERTIES

SPECIFICATIONS

UNS Number: UNS S32100

Werkstoff Number: 1.4541

Standards: ASTM A240, A276, A312, A479, AMS 5510, 5645

PRINCE K. SINGH