Stainless Steel 440B Sheet

Stainless steel 440B sheet is a high-carbon martensitic stainless steel alloy sheet. It contains higher carbon content compared to other grades in the 400 series, typically around 0.75-0.95%. Its composition includes iron alloys (Fe), chromium (Cr) up to 17%, carbon (C) at 0.75%, molybdenum (Mo) up to 1%, manganese (Mn) up to 1%, silicon (Si) up to 0.5 % and other elements like vanadium, phosphorus, copper, sulfur etc. This increased carbon content enhances its hardness and wear resistance, making it suitable for applications requiring high strength and corrosion resistance.

Chemical Composition of Stainless Steel 440B Sheet

Stainless Steel 440B Sheet exhibit a diverse composition, as detailed in the comprehensive table below.

Grade	C	Si	Mn	S	P	Cr	Ni	Mo
440B	0.85～0.95	≤1	≤1	≤0.030	≤0.035	16.00～18.00	≤0.60	≤0.75

This table underscores the exceptional properties of Stainless Steel 440B Sheet, ensuring durability and corrosion resistance.

Mechanical Properties of Stainless Steel 440B Sheet

Explore the mechanical characteristics of Stainless Steel 440B Sheet detailed in the comprehensive table provided below.

Tempering Temperature (°C)	Tensile Strength (MPa)	Yield Strength 0.2% Proof (MPa)	Elongation (% in 50mm)	Hardness Rockwell (HR C)	Impact Charpy V (J)
Annealed*	758	448	14	269HB max#	–
204	2030	1900	4	59	9
260	1960	1830	4	57	9
316	1860	1740	4	56	9
371	1790	1660	4	56	9

The data presented in this table emphasizes the remarkable mechanical durability of Stainless Steel 440B Sheet, ensuring unparalleled performance.

Physical Properties of Stainless Steel 440B Sheet

The physical properties of grade 440B Stainless Steel sheet are displayed in the following table.

Grade	Density (kg/m3)	Elastic Modulus (GPa)	Mean Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (μm/m/°C)			Thermal Conductivity (W/m.K)		Specific Heat 0-100°C (J/kg.K)	Electrical Resistivity (nΩ.m)
			0-100°C	0-200°C	0-600°C	at 100°C	at 500°C
440 B	7650	200	10.1	10.3	11.7	24.2	–	460	600

Stainless Steel 440B Sheet feature robust density, thermal conductivity and elasticity.

Characteristics Of Stainless Steel 440B Sheet

Stainless steel 440B sheet possesses several characteristics that make it suitable for specific applications:

High Hardness: Stainless steel 440B sheet is known for its high hardness due to its elevated carbon content. This characteristic makes it well-suited for applications requiring excellent wear resistance and edge retention, such as knife blades and cutting tools.
Good Corrosion Resistance: While not as corrosion-resistant as austenitic stainless steels, 440B sheets still offer good resistance to corrosion in mild environments. It can withstand exposure to moisture and some chemicals, making it suitable for certain industrial and outdoor applications.
Moderate Toughness: Stainless steel 440B sheet exhibits moderate toughness, providing adequate strength and impact resistance for many applications. However, compared to lower carbon grades in the 400 series, it may be more prone to brittleness under certain conditions.
Excellent Edge Retention: Due to its high hardness, the stainless steel 440B sheet can hold a sharp edge for extended periods, making it popular in applications where cutting performance is critical, such as knife manufacturing.
Magnetic Properties: Like most martensitic stainless steels, 440B sheet is magnetic, which can be advantageous in applications where magnetic properties are required, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment.
Heat Treatability: The stainless steel 440B sheet is heat-treatable, allowing for precise control over its mechanical properties. Through heat treatment processes such as quenching and tempering
Moderate Corrosion Resistance: SS 440B sheet offers good corrosion resistance in mild environments; it may be susceptible to rust and staining in more aggressive corrosive environments or prolonged exposure to moisture. Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserve its appearance and performance.

The combination of properties in stainless steel 440B sheets makes them suitable for applications across diverse industries.

Uses Of Stainless Steel 440B Sheet

Stainless steel 440B sheets find application in various industries where their specific properties are advantageous. Some common applications include:

Knife Manufacturing: Stainless steel 440B sheet is popularly used for making high-quality knife blades due to its high hardness, excellent edge retention, and corrosion resistance. Knives made from stainless steel 440B sheet are favored for their durability and ability to maintain a sharp edge.
Industrial Cutting Tools: Stainless steel 440B sheets are utilized in the manufacturing of industrial cutting tools such as drills, saw blades, and cutting dies.
Surgical Instruments: Surgical instruments, including scalpels, forceps, and scissors, often incorporate stainless steel 440B sheets due to their ability to maintain a sharp edge and resist corrosion in medical environments.
Ball Bearings: Stainless steel 440B sheet is employed in the production of ball bearings and other precision mechanical components.
Tooling and Tooling Components: Stainless steel 440B sheets are used to manufacture various tooling components, such as punches, dies, and moulds, where high hardness and wear resistance are essential for prolonged tool life and consistent performance.
Aerospace Components: In aerospace applications, stainless steel 440B sheets may be utilized for components required, such as aircraft engine parts, fasteners, and structural elements.
Marine Equipment: Certain marine equipment, including propeller shafts, marine hardware, and diving knives, may incorporate stainless steel 440B sheet in marine environments and its ability to maintain performance under harsh conditions.
Automotive Components: Stainless steel 440B sheets can be used in automotive applications, such as engine components, valves, and transmission parts.

These are just a few examples of the diverse applications of stainless steel 440B sheets across different industries where their specific properties make them valuable.