Type 303
Type 303
Type 303 stainless steel - free-machining, non-galling 18-8 chromium-nickel alloy, ASTM A582/A276. Excellent for parts requiring machining and corrosion resistance. Los Angeles warehouse. Custom cutting and same-day pickup available.
- Type 303 stainless steel – an 18-8 chromium-nickel alloy optimized for superior machinability.
- Modified with sulfur/selenium and phosphorus to enhance free-machining and non-galling properties.
- Ideal for precision components, fasteners, and moving parts requiring extensive machining.
- Offers good corrosion resistance and low magnetic permeability, suitable for various industrial environments.
Bobco Metals is a premier supplier of Type 303 stainless steel in Los Angeles, providing high-quality materials to contractors, fabricators, engineers, manufacturers, machine shops, and welding shops across Southern California. Our extensive inventory of Type 303 stainless steel is specifically chosen for its exceptional machinability and reliable performance in demanding industrial applications. We understand the critical need for precision and efficiency in your operations, offering a dependable source for this specialized alloy.
Type 303 is an "18-8" chromium-nickel austenitic stainless steel, uniquely modified with additions of selenium or sulfur, along with phosphorus, to significantly enhance its machinability. This modification makes it the most readily machined of all the austenitic stainless steels, while also imparting excellent non-seizing and non-galling properties. Conforming to standards such as ASTM A582 and A276, Type 303 maintains good corrosion resistance, making it a versatile choice for parts that require extensive machining, grinding, or polishing, where both workability and environmental resilience are crucial.
The superior free-machining characteristics of Type 303 stainless steel make it indispensable for a wide array of applications. It is predominantly used for components produced on automatic screw machines, including fasteners, shafts, valves, fittings, gears, bushings, and other intricate parts where close tolerances and smooth finishes are required. Its non-seizing nature is particularly beneficial for moving parts, reducing wear and ensuring smooth operation in machinery and equipment across various sectors, from automotive and aerospace to general manufacturing and marine.
At Bobco Metals, we pride ourselves on delivering not just materials, but comprehensive service. Our Los Angeles warehouse stocks a broad range of Type 303 stainless steel, primarily in round bar forms, ensuring immediate availability for your projects. We offer custom cutting services to meet your exact specifications, alongside convenient same-day pickup options. Trust Bobco Metals for high-grade Type 303 stainless steel and expert support, helping you achieve optimal results for your most challenging fabrication and machining requirements.
Specifications
- Alloy: Type 303 (18-8 Chromium-Nickel Stainless Steel)
- Standards: ASTM A582, ASTM A276
- Key Modification: Addition of Selenium or Sulfur, and Phosphorus for machinability
- Machinability: Excellent, considered the most free-machining austenitic stainless steel
- Corrosion Resistance: Good, particularly in mild atmospheric and fresh water environments
- Non-Seizing/Non-Galling: Superior properties for moving parts
- Magnetic Permeability: Low (austenitic)
- Common Forms: Round bars, hex bars, flat bars
- Surface Finish: Typically cold drawn or mill finish, suitable for further processing
Mechanical Properties
- Tensile Strength: 75,000 psi minimum (515 MPa) per ASTM A582
- Yield Strength (0.2% Offset): 30,000 psi minimum (205 MPa) typical
- Elongation: 35% in 2 inches minimum
- Hardness: 262 HB maximum (or 100 HRB maximum)
- Modulus of Elasticity: 29.0 x 10^6 psi (200 GPa)
Values may vary by mill & heat; verify against the MTR for your order.
Applications
- Machined Components: Fasteners, bolts, nuts, screws, fittings, bushings, gears
- Automatic Screw Machine Parts: High-volume production of intricate components
- Shafts & Spindles: For machinery and equipment requiring smooth operation
- Valve Components: Seats, stems, and other parts in fluid handling systems
- Electrical Components: Insulators, connectors, and other precision parts
- Architectural Hardware: Hinges, handles, and decorative elements requiring machining
- Food Processing Equipment: Components where good machinability and corrosion resistance are needed
- General Manufacturing: Various parts requiring extensive machining and good surface finish
Target Users
Type 303 stainless steel is primarily utilized by machine shops, metal fabricators, and manufacturing engineers who require a highly machinable material for precision components. Welding shops and general contractors also find it valuable for applications where parts need to be easily formed or modified after initial machining. Its properties make it ideal for industries producing intricate parts and assemblies.
Finish Options
- Standard cold drawn finish for round bars
- Mill finish (suitable for further machining or polishing)
How to Measure
For Type 303 stainless steel round bars, specify the exact diameter required in inches and the desired length in feet or inches. For example, an order might be for "1 inch diameter x 12 foot length" of Type 303 stainless steel round bar. Our team can assist with precise measurements and custom cutting to ensure your material meets project specifications with appropriate tolerances.
Order Checklist
- Product designation and required dimensions
- Grade/alloy specification and quantity (pieces or total length/weight)
- Cutting instructions (standard lengths or custom cuts with tolerances)
- Surface finish requirements (as-rolled, polished, coated, etc.)
- Any certifications required (Mill Test Report - MTR) for material traceability
- Special handling, packaging, or delivery requirements
Quick Facts
- Material
- Type 303
- Standards
- ASTM A276, ASTM A582
- Key Properties
- Type 303 stainless steel is an austenitic alloy renowned for its exceptional free-machining properties, making it the preferred choice for...
- Applications
- Machined Components
- Available Forms
- Multiple sizes and forms available - contact for details
- Location
- Los Angeles warehouse - Same-day pickup available
Need Stock Sizes?
Bobco Metals stocks Type 303 stainless steel round bars in a comprehensive range of diameters, including: 1/8", 3/16", 7/32", 1/4", 5/16", 1/2", 9/16", 5/8", 3/4", 13/16", 7/8", 1-1/8", 1-1/4", 1-3/8", 1-1/2", 1-5/8", 1-3/4", 1-7/8", 2-1/2", and 2-3/4". Custom lengths are available upon request to suit specific project requirements.
Custom cutting and sizing services are available.
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