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Type 303 Rounds
Type 303 stainless steel rounds meeting ASTM A582. Known for excellent machinability and 90,000 PSI tensile strength. Diameters from 1/8" available for same-day pickup.
About Type 303 Rounds
Type 303 stainless steel rounds offer excellent machinability and 90,000 PSI tensile strength. Conforms to ASTM A582 and is ideal for shafts, fasteners, and fittings. In stock with custom cutting available.
Quick Facts
- Material: Type 303 Stainless Steel
- ASTM Standard: A582
- Available Sizes: Diameters from 1/8"
- Location: Los Angeles warehouse
- Services: Custom size, same-day pickup
Overview
Type 303 is an austenitic stainless steel specifically designed for superior machinability. An addition of sulfur to its composition reduces tool wear and allows for higher cutting speeds, making it a primary choice for automated machining operations. While this modification enhances its workability, it slightly reduces the corrosion resistance compared to Type 304. It is non-magnetic in the annealed condition and cannot be hardened by heat treatment, only by cold working.
As a round bar, Type 303 provides a versatile and dimensionally stable raw material for a wide range of machined components. Its consistent diameter is ideal for CNC lathes and screw machines, enabling the efficient production of complex parts with tight tolerances. This form is frequently specified for creating shafts, axles, gears, valves, fittings, and fasteners where high-speed production and a smooth surface finish are critical project requirements for industrial and manufacturing sectors.
Technical Specifications
⚠️ Reference Data Only: Values shown are typical industry standards and may vary by manufacturer, lot, and heat treatment. For critical applications, please contact us to verify specifications or request a Mill Test Report (MTR).
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 90,000 | PSI |
| Yield Strength | 35,000 | PSI |
| Elongation | 50 | % |
| Hardness | 228 | HB |
Applicable Standards
- ASTM A582: Standard Specification for Free-Machining Stainless Steel Bars
Common Applications
- Automated Machining: Shafts, spindles, and bushings - Excellent machinability allows for high-speed production.
- Fasteners & Hardware: Screws, bolts, and nuts - Easily threaded and machined to precise dimensions.
- Aerospace: Non-critical aircraft fittings and components - Good strength and reliable machinability for complex parts.
- Valves & Fittings: Valve bodies, stems, and pipe fittings - Good corrosion resistance for non-marine environments.
- Electronics: Standoffs, connectors, and switchgear components - Non-magnetic properties and ease of fabrication.
- Automotive: Solenoid components and gear shafts - High production efficiency for complex parts.
- Medical Instruments: Non-critical surgical tools and instrument handles - Good corrosion resistance and can be sterilized.
Working with Type 303 Rounds
Machining
Type 303 is the most readily machinable of all austenitic stainless steels. The sulfur addition acts as a chip breaker, resulting in smaller chips and reduced tool wear. Use high-speed steel or carbide tooling with constant feeds to prevent work hardening.
Welding
Welding of Type 303 stainless steel is not recommended. The high sulfur content that provides its excellent machinability makes the material prone to hot cracking during welding. If welding is unavoidable, use Type 308L filler rods and low heat input, though the weld will have reduced strength.
Finishing
Achieves a smooth, bright finish after machining. It can be passivated to improve corrosion resistance but is not suitable for high-polish decorative applications due to microscopic sulfide inclusions.
Related Products
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main difference between 303 and 304 stainless steel?
A: The primary difference is the addition of sulfur in Type 303, which makes it far easier to machine. This comes at the cost of slightly lower corrosion resistance and makes it unsuitable for welding, whereas Type 304 has excellent corrosion resistance and weldability but is more difficult to machine.
Q: Can Type 303 stainless be hardened by heat treatment?
A: No, Type 303 is an austenitic stainless steel and cannot be hardened by heat treatment. It can only be hardened through cold working, such as drawing or rolling, which increases its tensile strength and hardness.
Q: Is 303 stainless steel magnetic?
A: In its annealed (non-worked) condition, Type 303 is non-magnetic. However, significant cold working can induce some magnetism in the material.
Stock & Custom Sizes
Available diameters: 1/8", 3/16", 1/4", and larger. Standard lengths: 12 ft. Custom size available.
Same-day cutting and Los Angeles pickup available.
View Sizes & PricingNeed Type 303 Rounds? Contact Bobco Metals for availability and Los Angeles pickup.
Request a Quote Ask an Expert| Item Size & Description | Weight (lbs.)/Ft | Click! Arrow to Select Size | Qty | Price | Actions |
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