Alloy 321/321H
Alloy 321 Stainless Steel: Pharmaceutical Production
Alloy 321 is an austenitic stainless steel, a family of grades known for its ductility, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance. Type 321 stainless steel is stabilized with titanium, giving it resistance to chromium carbide precipitation when exposed to temperatures in excess of 800° F. As a result, 321 stainless steel is considered an ideal material of construction for applications in the pharmaceutical industry where strength, durability, ease of maintenance, and hygiene are concerns. Whether used as a material in the production of reaction vessels, storage tanks, pumps, piping systems or heat exchangers, ovens, fittings, or valves, alloy 321 meets the strict quality standards of the pharmaceutical and biochemical industries.
Alloy 321 Stainless Steel Properties
Sanitary, pharmaceutical-grade stainless steel must exhibit good corrosion resistance and maintain its structural integrity. Alloy 321 is resistant to pitting and cracking and is easy to clean-must-have characteristics when contamination is a concern. Whereas certain grades of austenitic stainless steel are subject to intergranular attack when exposed to temperatures in the chromium carbide precipitation range (800-1500°F), stainless steel alloy 321 is not, due to its titanium stabilization. Furthermore, type 321 stainless steel offers higher creep and stress rupture properties when compared to alloys 304 and 304L. When exposed to low temperatures, this stainless steel exhibits good toughness. Alloy 321’s corrosion resistance is comparable to 304 and can be used with most diluted organic acids and chloride- and fluoride-free caustic solutions at moderate temperatures. Alloy 321 is weldable and can be processed by standard fabrication practices. Click here for additional information on 321 properties.
Choose Sandmeyer Steel for Alloy 321 Stainless Steel Plate
Sandmeyer Steel Company offers the largest single-site source of stainless steel and nickel alloy plate in North America. If you are in search of 321 stainless steel plate for the fabrication of pharmaceutical process equipment, contact us today via phone (800-523-3663) or email (sales@sandmeyersteel.com). Type 321 stainless steel plate is available in thicknesses as thin as 3/16″ and as thick as 4″.