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Stainless Steel
CNC Machining Services

Material
Lead Time
5 – 22 Days
Cost

$$$

Machined Stainless Steel Description

CNC-machined stainless steel is a strong material containing at least 10.5% chromium. Some methods that shape stainless steel are turning, drilling, milling, and grinding. This material is durable, resistant to corrosion, and can withstand high temperatures, making it a popular choice for industrial use. The aerospace, automotive, chemical, and medical fields rely on stainless steel parts because they perform well and are reliable.

Key Characteristics

Characteristics may vary depending on the grade/alloy.

  • Biocompatible
  • Chemical Resistant
  • Corrosion Resistant 
  • High Ductility 
  • High Strength
  • Temperature Resistant
  • Wear Resistant

Applications

  • Aerospace Parts
  • Appliances 
  • Automotive Exhaust Systems
  • Brake Components
  • Food Processing Machinery
  • Medical Equipment
  • Surgical Instruments

Industries that use Machined Stainless Steel

  • Aerospace & Defense
  • Automotive
  • Consumer Products
  • Industrial
  • Medical, Dental, & Sciences
Why should you choose machined stainless steel for your project?

Stainless steel is an excellent choice for many commercial and industrial uses because it resists rust, is strong, and lasts long. It can also handle extreme temperatures, making it suitable for harsh environments.

Parts made from stainless steel are accurate and precise, and their high-quality finish ensures they perform well over time. This material is also easy to shape and machine to fit various needs.

Whether you need parts for machines, medical equipment, or heavy engineering, stainless steel provides excellent value for your money. It resists stress, cracking, and wear and requires little maintenance. Choosing stainless steel means your parts or equipment will work reliably and meet high-quality standards.

Finishes for machined stainless steel

Various finishes are available for stainless steel, depending on the desired appearance and function. One standard finish is the unpolished or matte finish, which is obtained by grinding the surface with abrasives until a smooth, consistent texture is obtained. This finish is common in industrial applications where a smooth surface is necessary for further processing.

Another popular option is the brushed finish, which involves polishing the surface with progressively finer abrasive pads to create a subtle, satin-like appearance. Architectural applications such as handrails and fixtures use this finish.

A mirror finish can also be achieved by polishing the stainless steel with increasingly finer abrasive compounds, resulting in a smooth, reflective surface. This type of finish is standard in decorative applications, including jewelry and high-end appliances.

Lastly, a passivated finish can be applied to stainless steel to enhance its corrosion resistance and overall durability.

Stainless Steel FAQs

What is stainless steel?

Stainless steel is a strong metal made from iron, chromium, and other elements like nickel, molybdenum, and manganese. The name “stainless” comes from its resistance to corrosion, rust, and stains.

Many industries, including construction, automotive, aerospace, and healthcare, use stainless steel because it is durable and versatile. Due to its easy-to-clean and hygienic properties, stainless steel is also used in kitchen appliances, cutlery, and cookware.

Stainless steel looks good, which is common in architecture and furniture design.

What are standard finishes for machined stainless steel?

After machining stainless steel, you can finish it differently to improve its function and appearance. Brushing adds a textured surface that hides scratches and fingerprints. Polishing gives a shiny, mirror-like finish that enhances reflectivity. Satin finishes combine brushing and polishing for a softer, matte look. Electroplating involves coating the steel with a metal layer, like nickel or chrome, which boosts its resistance to corrosion and improves its appearance. Each finishing method has unique benefits that can be customized to meet specific needs.

Advantages of machining stainless steel.

Stainless steel is an excellent material for CNC machining projects. It resists corrosion, is durable, and provides a high-quality finish. Stainless steel is strong, precise, and long-lasting, making it a popular choice for many industrial uses.

Disadvantages of machining stainless steel.

Stainless steel can be more expensive, harder to machine, and require specialized tools than other materials, making it less cost-effective for some CNC projects.

Stainless Steel Machining Alloys

Stainless Steel 15-5 PH

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

115000 – 190000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

95000 – 160000

Hardness (Brinell)

255 – 388

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

45%

Stainless Steel 17-4 PH

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

115000 – 190000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

75000 – 90000

Hardness (Brinell)

255 – 388

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

45%

Stainless Steel 17-7 PH

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

170000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

42000

Hardness (Brinell)

180

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

75%

Stainless Steel 303

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

87000 – 100000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

33000 – 52000

Hardness (Brinell)

170 – 210

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

75%

Stainless Steel 304

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

84000 – 170000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

30000 – 63000

Hardness (Brinell)

170 – 360

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

40%

Stainless Steel 304L

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

78000 – 170000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

25000 – 62000

Hardness (Brinell)

160 – 350

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

40%

Stainless Steel 316

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

76000 – 170000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

30000 – 63000

Hardness (Brinell)

160 – 350

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

36%

Stainless Steel 316L

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

77000 – 170000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

25000 – 65000

Hardness (Brinell)

160 – 350

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

36%

Stainless Steel 321

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

85000 – 100000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

32000 – 40000

Hardness (Brinell)

170 – 210

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

36%

Stainless Steel 347

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

89000 – 100000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

320000 – 40000

Hardness (Brinell)

160 – 201

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

36%

Stainless Steel 410

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

76000 – 110000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

28000 – 50000

Hardness (Brinell)

190 – 240

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

54%

Stainless Steel 416

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

75000 – 120000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

33000 – 50000

Hardness (Brinell)

230 – 320

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

50%

Stainless Steel 420

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

100000 – 250000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

33000 – 97000

Hardness (Brinell)

190

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

50%

Stainless Steel 420F

Heat Treatable

No

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

110000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

39000

Hardness (Brinell)

230

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

68%

Stainless Steel 430

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

75000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

75000

Hardness (Brinell)

160

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

66%

Stainless Steel 430F

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

79800

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

30000

Hardness (Brinell)

170

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

75%

Stainless Steel 440C

Heat Treatable

Yes

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

100000 – 290000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

38000 – 120000

Hardness (Brinell)

222

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

40%

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