AISI 416 stainless steel 416
Iron base with 12.0 to 14.0 % Cr, 0.15 % C maximum, 0.15 % S minimum, Mn 1.25 % maximum, Si 1.0 % maximum, P 0.06 % maximum, Mo 0.60 % maximum
Also known as UNS S41600, EN 1.4005, EN name X12CrS13, AISI 416, SAE 51416, JIS SUS416 · 8 more
AISI 416 (UNS S41600, EN 1.4005, X12CrS13) is a free-machining martensitic stainless steel with 12 to 14 % chromium and a sulfur addition of at least 0.15 %.
Evidence level
2 of 5
Lab-measured
- 0Predicted only. No one has made it, or no measurement exists.
- 1Calculated. Only calculated or predicted values from sources.
- 2Lab-measured. Measured properties with their conditions stated.
- 3Space-relevant tests. Measured in conditions relevant to space, such as vacuum or atomic oxygen.
- 4Ground-qualified. Qualified for an application on the ground.
- 5Flown or field-proven. Flight or field results exist.
Machine fast
about 85 % of free-machining carbon steel
Harden
26 to 32 RC
Carry load when quenched and tempered
at least 450 MPa yield, 650 to 850 MPa tensile
Weight
7.7 kg/dm3
Heat
30 W/m K at 20 °C
Recipe, share of the weight
- Cr not statedChromium
- C not statedCarbon
- S not statedSulfur
- Mn not statedManganese
- Si not statedSilicon
- P not statedPhosphorus
- Mo not statedMolybdenum
- Fe not statedIron
Best for
Shafts, axles, gears, valve and pump parts and screw-machine parts that must be cut quickly and then hardened, kept away from chloride exposure
Weakest at
Corrosion resistance. The sulfur addition lowers it below the non-free-machining grade 410, and the Aalco datasheet calls high-sulfur free-machining grades totally unsuitable for marine or chloride exposure
Risk at a glance
- People Low. Hazard comes from processing
- If it fails Severe. Corrosion from chlorides, sulfur-induced pitting and crevices
- Corrosion Severe. Not suitable for marine or chloride exposure.
Quick facts: 416
| Property | Value | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 7.7 to 7.81 g/cm³ | 3 sourced values across conditions |
| Yield strength | 276 to 951 MPa | 5 sourced values across conditions |
| Tensile strength | 517 to 1,172 MPa | 6 sourced values across conditions |
| Young's modulus | 190 to 215 GPa | 2 sourced values across conditions |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 220 to 385 HB | 2 sourced values across conditions |
| Thermal conductivity | 24.9 to 30 W/(m·K) | 2 sourced values across conditions |
| Thermal expansion (CTE) | 9.9 to 10.1 ppm/K | 2 sourced values across conditions |
| Melting point | 1,490 °C | 1 sourced value |
| Specific heat | 460 J/(kg·K) | 1 sourced value |
| Electrical resistivity | 0.6 Ω mm2/m | 1 sourced value |
| Maximum service temperature | 675 °C | 1 sourced value |
What is the density of AISI 416 stainless steel?
AISI 416 stainless steel has a density of 7.7 to 7.81 g/cm³. The range covers 3 sourced values across the tempers, forms and test conditions the sources report; room-temperature values are used where a source states a temperature.
What is the thermal conductivity of AISI 416 stainless steel?
AISI 416 stainless steel has a thermal conductivity of 24.9 to 30 W/(m·K). The range covers 2 sourced values across the tempers, forms and test conditions the sources report; room-temperature values are used where a source states a temperature.
What is the coefficient of thermal expansion of AISI 416 stainless steel?
AISI 416 stainless steel has a coefficient of thermal expansion of 9.9 to 10.1 ppm/K. The range covers 2 sourced values across the tempers, forms and test conditions the sources report; room-temperature values are used where a source states a temperature.
What is the melting point of AISI 416 stainless steel?
AISI 416 stainless steel has a melting point of 1,490 °C. The source and test conditions are listed in the properties table on this page.
What is the yield strength of AISI 416 stainless steel?
AISI 416 stainless steel has a yield strength of 276 to 951 MPa. The range covers 5 sourced values across the tempers, forms and test conditions the sources report; room-temperature values are used where a source states a temperature.
What are the other names and codes for AISI 416 stainless steel?
AISI 416 stainless steel is also written as UNS S41600, EN 1.4005, EN name X12CrS13, AISI 416, SAE 51416, JIS SUS416. Each code is printed in the source listed beside it in the designations table.
What is AISI 416 stainless steel used for?
Uses recorded in the sources include Axles, shafts and gears; Automatic screw-machine parts and pump and valve components; Fasteners, bolts, nuts and studs.
Why it exists
AISI 416 is the free-machining version of 12 % chromium martensitic stainless steel. Sulfur added to the 416 chemistry lets it be machined at high speed on automatic lathes, while it can still be hardened by heat treatment. The DEW datasheet describes it as the shaft-material grade for automated machining. The price of that machinability is corrosion resistance: Aalco says the sulfur lowers corrosion resistance below the non-free-machining grade 410.
Where it's used
Shafts, axles and gears
The Rolled Alloys sheet lists axles, shafts and gears as typical uses. The DEW datasheet calls 1.4005 a special grade for shaft material.
Screw-machine and pump or valve parts
Automatic screw-machine parts, pump components and valve parts are listed by Rolled Alloys and Aalco.
Fasteners
Bolts, nuts and studs are listed by Aalco. Upmet lists fasteners and fittings.
Recipe
Iron base with 12.0 to 14.0 % Cr, 0.15 % C maximum, 0.15 % S minimum, Mn 1.25 % maximum, Si 1.0 % maximum, P 0.06 % maximum, Mo 0.60 % maximum; martensitic free-machining stainless steel
AISI 416 is an iron-chromium steel with 12 to 14 % chromium, carbon up to 0.15 %, and a deliberate sulfur addition of at least 0.15 %. The sulfur is added for machinability (Rolled Alloys, Aalco). The Rolled Alloys sheet gives the composition as a minimum and maximum table, with iron as the balance. The steel is heat treated after forming: full or sub-critical annealing, then hardening and tempering (DEW, Aalco).
| Ingredient | Share of the weight | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Chromium Cr | not stated | The stainless element. It forms the passive film that gives stainless steel its corrosion resistance, and it sets the martensitic structure, which lets the grade be hardened. |
| Carbon C | not stated | Limit set in the composition table of the Rolled Alloys sheet. |
| Sulfur S | not stated | The free-machining addition. It forms manganese sulfide inclusions that act as chip breakers, and it lowers corrosion resistance and weldability. |
| Manganese Mn | not stated | Limit set in the composition table of the Rolled Alloys sheet. |
| Silicon Si | not stated | Limit set in the composition table of the Rolled Alloys sheet. |
| Phosphorus P | not stated | Limit set in the composition table of the Rolled Alloys sheet. Aalco describes phosphorus as an addition for machinability. |
| Molybdenum Mo | not stated | Limit set in the composition table of the Rolled Alloys sheet. |
| Iron Fe | not stated | The base metal. |
Weight shares are as printed in the sources.
What it can do
Machine fast
about 85 % of free-machining carbon steel
Aalco says grade 416 has the highest machinability of any stainless steel, at about 85 % of that of a free-machining carbon steel. Upmet gives the same figure.
Harden
26 to 32 RC
measured
The Rolled Alloys sheet says 416 can be hardened by heat treatment to 26 to 32 RC.
Carry load when quenched and tempered
at least 450 MPa yield, 650 to 850 MPa tensile
measured
In the QT650 condition, the EN 10088-3 values are a minimum yield strength of 450 MPa and a tensile strength of 650 to 850 MPa, with a minimum A5 of 12 %.
Weight
7.7 kg/dm3
measured
The DEW datasheet gives a density of 7.7 kg/dm3. Aalco gives 7.75 g/cm3 for the same grade.
Heat
30 W/m K at 20 °C
measured
The DEW datasheet gives a thermal conductivity of 30 W/m K at 20 °C. Aalco gives 24.9 W/m.K without a temperature.
How it compares
Against the non-free-machining grade 410, Aalco says 416 has lower corrosion resistance, weldability and formability because of its sulfur. Against the austenitic grades, Aalco says corrosion resistance is lower. This profile holds no 410 or austenitic values, so the comparison rests on the statements in the datasheets.
The same measurements for each material, so you can compare them. Each row names the key condition under the value; the full conditions and methods are in the numbered notes under Technical details. Other materials are shown beside it; each was measured under its own conditions, so open its page before comparing closely. Compare every grade in the family.
| Measurement | 416 | 410 (UNS S41000) | 440C (UNS S44004) | S41500 (F6NM forged, CA6NM cast) | 410S (UNS S41008) | 420 | 431 (UNS S43100, EN 1.4057) | 1.4418 (X4CrNiMo16-5-1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thermal behavior and safety | ||||||||
| Melting point, 416Value printed in a corporate bulletin | 2714 °F | 1482 to 1532 °C | 2500 to 2700 °F | no data | 1480 to 1530 °C | 2650 to 2750 °F | no data | no data |
| Thermal conductivity, 1.4005 bar at 20 °CValue printed in a manufacturer datasheet | 30 W/m K | 24.9 W/m-K | 24.2 W/m.K | 25 W/(m K) | 26.9 W/m-K | 24.9 W/(m·K) | 25 W/(m·K) | 15 W/m K |
| Thermal conductivity, 1.4005 bar (no temperature)Value printed in a stockholder datasheet | 24.9 W/m.K | 24.9 W/m-K | 24.2 W/m.K | 25 W/(m K) | 26.9 W/m-K | 24.9 W/(m·K) | 25 W/(m·K) | 15 W/m K |
| Thermal conductivity, 416 at 212 °FValue printed in a corporate bulletin | 171.8 Btu·ft/ft2·hr·°F | 24.9 W/m-K | 24.2 W/m.K | 25 W/(m K) | 26.9 W/m-K | 24.9 W/(m·K) | 25 W/(m·K) | 15 W/m K |
| Specific heat capacity, 1.4005 bar at 20 °CValue printed in a manufacturer datasheet | 460 J/kg K | 0.46 kJ/(kg·K) | no data | 430 J/(kg K) | 0.46 kJ/kg·K | 460 J/(kg·K) | 460 J/(kg·K) | 430 J/kg K |
| Physical and electrical | ||||||||
| Density, 1.4005 barValue printed in a manufacturer datasheet | 7.7 kg/dm3 | 7.73 g/cm³ | 0.275 lb/in3 | 7.61 to 8.1 kg/dm3 | 7.73 g/cm³ | 7.75 g/cm³ | 7800 kg/m3 | 7.7 kg/dm3 |
| Density, 1.4005 (EN 10088-3 bar)Value printed in a stockholder datasheet | 7.75 g/cm³1 | 7.73 g/cm³ | 0.275 lb/in3 | 7.61 to 8.1 kg/dm3 | 7.73 g/cm³ | 7.75 g/cm³ | 7800 kg/m3 | 7.7 kg/dm3 |
| Density, 416 plateValue printed in a supplier datasheet | 0.282 lb/in3 | 7.73 g/cm³ | 0.275 lb/in3 | 7.61 to 8.1 kg/dm3 | 7.73 g/cm³ | 7.75 g/cm³ | 7800 kg/m3 | 7.7 kg/dm3 |
| Electrical resistivity, 1.4005 bar at 20 °CValue printed in a manufacturer datasheet | 0.6 Ω mm2/m | 57 µohm-cm | 0.6 10-6 ohm.m | no data | 60 µohm-cm | 0.55 µΩ·m | 0.7 ohm mm2/m | no data |
| Brinell hardness, 1.4005 annealed (specification maximum) | < 220 HB14 | no data | no data | no data | no data | < 241 HB | 260 HB | no data |
| Brinell hardness, 416 tempered at 900 °FValue printed in a corporate bulletin | 385 HB | no data | no data | no data | no data | < 241 HB | 260 HB | no data |
| Hardness after hardening, 416Range printed in a corporate bulletin | 26 to 32 RC | no data | no data | no data | no data | 48 HRC | no data | no data |
| Other measurements | ||||||||
| Thermal expansion, 1.4005 bar, 20 to 100 °CValue printed in a manufacturer datasheet | 10.5 10^-6/K2 | 9.9 µm/m-°C | 10.1 10-6/K | no data | 10.8 µm/m·K | 10.3 10^-6/K | 10 ppm/K | 10.8 10-6 K-1 |
| Thermal expansion, 1.4005 bar, 20 to 300 °CValue printed in a manufacturer datasheet | 11.5 10^-6/K3 | 9.9 µm/m-°C | 10.1 10-6/K | no data | 10.8 µm/m·K | 10.3 10^-6/K | 10 ppm/K | 10.8 10-6 K-1 |
| Thermal expansion, 416 from 70 °F to 212 °FValue printed in a corporate bulletin | 5.6 in/in°F x 10-6 | 9.9 µm/m-°C | 10.1 10-6/K | no data | 10.8 µm/m·K | 10.3 10^-6/K | 10 ppm/K | 10.8 10-6 K-1 |
| Thermal expansion, 1.4005 (no temperature)Value printed in a stockholder datasheet | 9.9 10^-6/K | 9.9 µm/m-°C | 10.1 10-6/K | no data | 10.8 µm/m·K | 10.3 10^-6/K | 10 ppm/K | 10.8 10-6 K-1 |
| Modulus of elasticity, 1.4005 barValue printed in a stockholder datasheet | 200 GPa | 200 GPa | 200 GPa | 200 GPa | 200 GPa | 200 GPa | 215 kN/mm2 | 200 GPa |
| Modulus of elasticity, AISI 416 rangeRange printed in a materials database | 190 to 215 GPa | 200 GPa | 200 GPa | 200 GPa | 200 GPa | 200 GPa | 215 kN/mm2 | 200 GPa |
| Maximum service temperature for scaling, continuous serviceValue printed in a stockholder datasheet | 675 °C | < 649 °C | 400 °C | 300 °C | < 705 °C | < 675 °C | 400 °C | 300 °C |
| Proof stress, 1.4005 bar up to 160 mm, EN 10088-3Minimum value printed in a stockholder datasheet | > 450 MPa4 | 205 to 290 MPa | 1896 MPa | > 520 MPa | > 30 ksi | 51.5 ksi | 600 MPa | > 550 MPa |
| Yield strength Rp0.2, 1.4005 QT650 (minimum) | > 450 N/mm25 | 205 to 290 MPa | 1896 MPa | > 520 MPa | > 30 ksi | 51.5 ksi | 600 MPa | > 550 MPa |
| Yield strength Rp0.2, 1.4005 QT650 (typical) | 480 N/mm26 | 205 to 290 MPa | 1896 MPa | > 520 MPa | > 30 ksi | 51.5 ksi | 600 MPa | > 550 MPa |
| Yield strength, 416 annealedRange printed in a corporate bulletin | 40 to 50 ksi7 | 205 to 290 MPa | 1896 MPa | > 520 MPa | > 30 ksi | 51.5 ksi | 600 MPa | > 550 MPa |
| Yield strength, 416 tempered at 900 °FValue printed in a corporate bulletin | 138 ksi | 205 to 290 MPa | 1896 MPa | > 520 MPa | > 30 ksi | 51.5 ksi | 600 MPa | > 550 MPa |
| Tensile strength, 1.4005 QT650 (specification) | 650 to 850 N/mm28 | 450 to 510 MPa | 1965 MPa | < 1100 MPa | > 60 ksi | 85.8 ksi | 862 MPa | 760 to 960 MPa |
| Tensile strength, 1.4005 QT650 (typical) | 710 N/mm29 | 450 to 510 MPa | 1965 MPa | < 1100 MPa | > 60 ksi | 85.8 ksi | 862 MPa | 760 to 960 MPa |
| Tensile strength, 1.4005 annealed (specification maximum) | < 730 N/mm210 | 450 to 510 MPa | 1965 MPa | < 1100 MPa | > 60 ksi | 85.8 ksi | 862 MPa | 760 to 960 MPa |
| Tensile strength, 1.4005 bar (EN 10088-3)Range printed in a stockholder datasheet | 650 to 850 MPa11 | 450 to 510 MPa | 1965 MPa | < 1100 MPa | > 60 ksi | 85.8 ksi | 862 MPa | 760 to 960 MPa |
| Tensile strength, 416 annealedRange printed in a corporate bulletin | 75 to 90 ksi | 450 to 510 MPa | 1965 MPa | < 1100 MPa | > 60 ksi | 85.8 ksi | 862 MPa | 760 to 960 MPa |
| Tensile strength, 416 tempered at 900 °FValue printed in a corporate bulletin | 170 ksi | 450 to 510 MPa | 1965 MPa | < 1100 MPa | > 60 ksi | 85.8 ksi | 862 MPa | 760 to 960 MPa |
| Elongation A5, 1.4005 QT650 (minimum) | > 12 %12 | 20 to 34 % | 2 % | 15 % | > 22 % | 12 to 13 % | 20 % | > 16 % |
| Elongation A5, 1.4005 QT650 (typical) | 14 %13 | 20 to 34 % | 2 % | 15 % | > 22 % | 12 to 13 % | 20 % | > 16 % |
| Elongation, 416 annealedRange printed in a corporate bulletin | 15 to 30 % | 20 to 34 % | 2 % | 15 % | > 22 % | 12 to 13 % | 20 % | > 16 % |
| Elongation, 416 tempered at 900 °FValue printed in a corporate bulletin | 18 % | 20 to 34 % | 2 % | 15 % | > 22 % | 12 to 13 % | 20 % | > 16 % |
| Reduction of area, 416 annealedRange printed in a corporate bulletin | 40 to 60 % | no data | no data | > 45 % | no data | no data | no data | no data |
Why choose it, and why not
Good for
- Shafts, axles and gears that are machined from bar.
- Automatic screw-machine parts, where machinability is the main requirement.
- Parts that are hardened and tempered, when the service environment is dry.
Watch out for
- Corrosion: the sulfur addition lowers corrosion resistance below grade 410 (Aalco, DEW).
- Welding is poor and needs post-weld annealing or stress relief (Aalco, Rolled Alloys).
- The 475 range (425 to 525 °C) should be avoided (DEW).
- No cryogenic or radiation numbers were found for this grade.
AISI 416 is the free-machining stainless steel. It machines well and hardens to 26 to 32 RC, but the sulfur that makes it machinable makes it one of the least corrosion-resistant stainless grades. It is a shaft and screw-machine grade for dry service, not a marine or welded-structure grade.
Technical details
For scientists and researchers. Everything above comes from the record below: every number with its method, its conditions and its source.
Other names and standards
The same grade under other systems, as datasheets and standards print them. Each code was checked against the page it comes from.
| System | Codes |
|---|---|
| UNS | S41600 |
| EN | 1.4005 |
| EN name | X12CrS13 |
| AISI | 416 |
| SAE | 51416 |
| JIS | SUS416 |
| BS | 416S21 |
| AFNOR | Z11CF13 |
| SS | 2380 (SIS 2380, Swedish standard number) |
| ISO | X12CrS13 |
| ASTM | A 314 (specification listed for the grade), A 484 (specification listed for the grade), A 582 (specification listed for the grade) |
| AMS | 5610 (Type II) |
Notes
The method, full conditions and any caveat for the numbered rows above.
| # | Measurement | Method | Conditions | Caveat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Density, 1.4005 (EN 10088-3 bar) | — | grade 1.4005 (416)spec EN 10088-3:2005, bartemperature not stated | — |
| 2 | Thermal expansion, 1.4005 bar, 20 to 100 °C | — | grade 1.4005 (X12CrS13)temperature 20 to 100 °Cunit in source 10.5 x 10-6 (K-1) | — |
| 3 | Thermal expansion, 1.4005 bar, 20 to 300 °C | — | grade 1.4005 (X12CrS13)temperature 20 to 300 °Cunit in source 11.5 x 10-6 (K-1) | — |
| 4 | Proof stress, 1.4005 bar up to 160 mm, EN 10088-3 | — | grade 1.4005 (416)product form bar up to 160 mm diameter or thicknessspec EN 10088-3:2005temper not named on the page | — |
| 5 | Yield strength Rp0.2, 1.4005 QT650 (minimum) | Specification minimum printed in a manufacturer datasheet | grade 1.4005 (X12CrS13)temper QT650 (quenched and tempered, tempered 680 to 780 °C)spec EN 10088-3 | — |
| 6 | Yield strength Rp0.2, 1.4005 QT650 (typical) | Typical value printed in a manufacturer datasheet | grade 1.4005 (X12CrS13)temper QT650 | — |
| 7 | Yield strength, 416 annealed | — | temper annealedtemperature 70 °F (room temperature)measure 0.2% yield | — |
| 8 | Tensile strength, 1.4005 QT650 (specification) | Specification range printed in a manufacturer datasheet | grade 1.4005 (X12CrS13)temper QT650spec EN 10088-3 | — |
| 9 | Tensile strength, 1.4005 QT650 (typical) | Typical value printed in a manufacturer datasheet | grade 1.4005 (X12CrS13)temper QT650 | — |
| 10 | Tensile strength, 1.4005 annealed (specification maximum) | Specification maximum printed in a manufacturer datasheet | grade 1.4005 (X12CrS13)temper annealed (heated 745 to 825 °C, furnace cooled) | — |
| 11 | Tensile strength, 1.4005 bar (EN 10088-3) | — | grade 1.4005 (416)product form bar up to 160 mmspec EN 10088-3:2005 | — |
| 12 | Elongation A5, 1.4005 QT650 (minimum) | Specification minimum printed in a manufacturer datasheet | grade 1.4005 (X12CrS13)temper QT650spec EN 10088-3 | — |
| 13 | Elongation A5, 1.4005 QT650 (typical) | Typical value printed in a manufacturer datasheet | grade 1.4005 (X12CrS13)temper QT650 | — |
| 14 | Brinell hardness, 1.4005 annealed (specification maximum) | Specification maximum printed in a manufacturer datasheet | grade 1.4005 (X12CrS13)temper annealed | — |
Corrosion and compatibility
What happens when it meets other materials and environments.
| Environment | Concern | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Dry atmosphere, fresh water, mild alkalis and mild acids | low | Useful resistance in mild conditions, but below the non-free-machining grades.1 |
| Marine or chloride exposure | severe | Not suitable for marine or chloride exposure.2 |
| Crevice and pitting conditions | severe | Sulfur makes crevice and pitting corrosion a specification concern.3 |
| Compared with 410 and austenitic grades | moderate | Lower than 410 and the austenitic grades.4 |
| Hardened and polished surface | moderate | Best corrosion resistance is in the hardened condition with a smooth finish.5 |
| # | Environment | Details | Test conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dry atmosphere, fresh water, mild alkalis and mild acids | The Aalco datasheet says 416 has useful resistance to dry atmospheres, fresh water and mild alkalis and acids, but is less resistant than the equivalent non-free-machining grades. The Rolled Alloys sheet says 416 is highly resistant to typical atmospheric conditions, and that maximum corrosion resistance comes from hardening and polishing. | basis datasheet statements, no test rates given |
| 2 | Marine or chloride exposure | The Aalco datasheet calls high-sulphur free-machining grades such as 416 totally unsuitable for marine or other chloride exposure. The Upmet and Continental sheets do not describe chloride resistance. | basis datasheet statement |
| 3 | Crevice and pitting conditions | The DEW datasheet says that although 1.4005 has a nominal 13 % chromium, its corrosion resistance is compromised by the sulfur addition, and that care should be taken where crevice or pitting corrosion may occur. It calls 1.4005 probably the least corrosion-resistant of the stainless steel grades. | basis datasheet statement, no test data |
| 4 | Compared with 410 and austenitic grades | The Aalco datasheet says the sulphur addition lowers corrosion resistance, weldability and formability below those of the non-free-machining grade 410, and that corrosion resistance is lower than the common austenitic grades. | basis datasheet comparison, no rates given |
| 5 | Hardened and polished surface | The Aalco datasheet says maximum corrosion resistance is achieved in the hardened condition with a smooth surface finish. The Rolled Alloys sheet says the same, through hardening and polishing. | basis datasheet statement |
Risks and side effects
Hazards to people, what happens when a cell overheats, and how the material is handled and stored.
For people
The solid steel is an article under the GPT SDS, but cutting, grinding, melting and welding give off fume and dust.
- Solid form
- The GPT Industries SDS calls stainless steel an article that is not hazardous in its solid form. The sheet is generic and does not name 416.
- Processing
- Cutting, milling, grinding, melting and welding can emit hazardous materials. The SDS lists carcinogenicity Category 1B and respiratory sensitizer Category 1 for the emitted elements, and it says fumes and dust should be controlled.
If it fails
The failure routes in the sources are weld cracking, sulfur-driven corrosion, and 475 embrittlement.
- Welding
- Aalco says 416 has poor weldability and needs annealing or stress relief after any weld. Rolled Alloys says free-machining grades are usually not welded.
- Chlorides
- Aalco calls high-sulfur free-machining grades totally unsuitable for marine or chloride exposure.
- 475 range
- The DEW datasheet says processing or service between 425 and 525 °C should be avoided because of 475 embrittlement.
Handling and storage
- Specify the temper
- Strength depends on temper. Annealed the DEW datasheet gives a maximum of 730 MPa tensile strength; quenched and tempered to QT650 it gives 650 to 850 MPa.
- Keep it dry
- Keep parts away from chlorides, and use the hardened and polished condition where corrosion matters most (Aalco, Rolled Alloys).
Test details
The original wording and numbers from the sources, for readers who want them.
Failure risks
| Failure | Trigger and consequence |
|---|---|
| Weld cracking and loss of propertiesmoderate severity | Welding 416 without the annealing or stress relief that the datasheets call forThe Aalco datasheet says 416 has poor weldability and needs a low-hydrogen 410 electrode, preheat to 200 to 300 °C, and an immediate anneal or stress relief at 650 to 675 °C. The Rolled Alloys sheet says free-machining grades are usually not welded and must be annealed after welding at about 1450 °F. |
| Cracking under cold deformationmoderate severity | Severe cold formingThe Aalco datasheet says cold working is suitable only for minor deformation and that severe deformation will result in cracking. |
| Embrittlement in the 475 °C rangemoderate severity | Processing or service between 425 and 525 °CThe DEW datasheet says 475 embrittlement occurs in this range, and that processing or service there should be avoided or minimised. |
| Loss of strength by over-temperingmoderate severity | Service or heating above the relevant tempering temperatureThe Aalco datasheet says the grade should not be used above its tempering temperature if the mechanical properties must be kept, and that its useful range is limited by low ductility at sub-zero temperatures and loss of strength from over-tempering at elevated temperatures. |
| Corrosion from chlorides, sulfur-induced pitting and crevicescritical severity | Marine, chloride or crevice conditionsThe Aalco datasheet calls high-sulphur grades totally unsuitable for marine or chloride exposure, and the DEW datasheet warns about pitting and crevice corrosion. |
Side effects on surrounding parts
| Affects | Effect |
|---|---|
| Corrosion resistance, weld quality and forming | Sulfur is added on purpose for machinability, forming manganese sulfide inclusions that act as chip breakers. The same sulfur lowers corrosion resistance, weldability and formability, according to the Aalco datasheet. |
Handling and storage
- Heat treat to the required temper: the DEW datasheet gives hardening at 950 to 1000 °C with air or oil quench and QT650 tempering at 680 to 780 °C. The Aalco datasheet gives hardening at 925 to 1010 °C with an oil quench and full annealing at 815 to 900 °C.
- The Totalmateria page gives annealing at 816 to 899 °C with a furnace cool to 593 °C, and a subcritical anneal at 649 to 788 °C with air cooling.
- Wear dust and fume protection when machining, grinding or welding. The GPT SDS says these processes can emit hazardous material even though the solid is not hazardous.
Mitigations
- The Aalco datasheet says best machinability is in the sub-critical annealed condition, which keeps machining cost down before the final hardening and tempering.
Supply and geography
How common the raw materials are and where they come from.
Chromium (12 to 14 % of the alloy)
- Top producers (2025)
- South Africa 45.1%, Turkey 17.6%, Kazakhstan 13.7%, India 5.9%
- Recycling
- USGS: recycled chromium, contained in reported stainless-steel scrap receipts, accounted for 21 % of 2025 apparent consumption. The United States imported 79 % of its apparent consumption (2025e).
- Substitutes
- USGS: chromium has no substitute in stainless steel, the leading end use.
Documents
Datasheets, safety data sheets, papers and standards you can open.
Full record
The complete spore, as stored. Free to reuse under CC-BY-4.0. Images keep the licence shown with each one.
Show the full YAML
spore: profile
id: stainless-416
spore_version: 0.2
family: stainless-martensitic
name: AISI 416 stainless steel
abbreviation: '416'
role: free-machining structural stainless steel
category: metals
type: steels-and-stainless
summary: |
AISI 416 (UNS S41600, EN 1.4005, X12CrS13) is a free-machining martensitic stainless steel with 12 to 14 % chromium and a sulfur addition of at least 0.15 %. Annealed, the Rolled Alloys data sheet gives a tensile strength of 75 to 90 ksi and a yield strength of 40 to 50 ksi, and the Swiss Steel (DEW) sheet gives a specification of at most 730 MPa tensile strength for the annealed state. Quenched and tempered to QT650, the EN 10088-3 values are a yield strength of at least 450 MPa and a tensile strength of 650 to 850 MPa. The sulfur gives the grade the best machinability among stainless steels, but it also makes 416 one of the least corrosion-resistant stainless grades.
best_for: Shafts, axles, gears, valve and pump parts and screw-machine parts that must be cut quickly and then hardened, kept away from chloride exposure
weakest_at: Corrosion resistance. The sulfur addition lowers it below the non-free-machining grade 410, and the Aalco datasheet calls high-sulfur free-machining grades totally unsuitable for marine or chloride exposure
identity:
formula: Iron base with 12.0 to 14.0 % Cr, 0.15 % C maximum, 0.15 % S minimum, Mn 1.25 % maximum, Si 1.0 % maximum, P 0.06 % maximum, Mo 0.60 % maximum; martensitic free-machining stainless steel
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Chemical Composition table of the Rolled Alloys Bulletin 416U, rows MIN and MAX; grade identity from its Specifications line (UNS S41600)
designations:
- system: UNS
code: S41600
source: rolled-416-page
where: Designations list, UNS line
- system: AISI
code: '416'
source: dew-14005
where: Relevant current and obsolete standards table, AISI row
- system: EN
code: '1.4005'
source: aalco-416
where: Page heading 1.4005 (416) Bar
- system: EN name
code: X12CrS13
source: dew-14005
where: Grade heading and Steel name column, EN 10088-3 row
- system: ISO
code: X12CrS13
source: totalmateria-416
where: Designations list, ISO entry
- system: SAE
code: '51416'
source: totalmateria-416
where: Designations list, SAE entry
- system: JIS
code: SUS416
source: totalmateria-416
where: Designations list, JIS entry
- system: BS
code: 416S21
source: dew-14005
where: Relevant current and obsolete standards table, BS row
- system: AFNOR
code: Z11CF13
source: dew-14005
where: Relevant current and obsolete standards table, AFNOR row
- system: SS
code: '2380'
note: SIS 2380, Swedish standard number
source: dew-14005
where: Relevant current and obsolete standards table, SIS row
- system: ASTM
code: A 314
note: specification listed for the grade
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Specifications line, ASTM entries
- system: ASTM
code: A 484
note: specification listed for the grade
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Specifications line, ASTM entries
- system: ASTM
code: A 582
note: specification listed for the grade
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Specifications line, ASTM entries
- system: AMS
code: '5610'
note: Type II
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Specifications line, AMS entry
tags:
environments: []
stresses: []
applications:
- mechanisms
- structures
properties:
- benchmark: density
label: Density, 1.4005 bar
value: 7.7
unit: kg/dm3
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temperature: not stated
method: Value printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Physical properties table, row density (kg/dm3)
- benchmark: density
label: Density, 1.4005 (EN 10088-3 bar)
value: 7.75
unit: g/cm3
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (416)
spec: EN 10088-3:2005, bar
temperature: not stated
method: Value printed in a stockholder datasheet
status: ground
source: aalco-416
where: Properties table, row Density
- benchmark: density
label: Density, 416 plate
value: 0.282
unit: lb/in3
scope: material
conditions:
product: 416 plate
temperature: not stated
method: Value printed in a supplier datasheet
status: ground
source: upmet-416
where: Physical Properties of 416 table, row Density
- benchmark: melting_point
label: Melting point, 416
value: 2714
unit: °F
scope: material
conditions:
pressure: not stated
note_on_form: no condition stated
method: Value printed in a corporate bulletin
status: ground
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Physical Properties block, Melting Point line
- benchmark: thermal_conductivity
label: Thermal conductivity, 1.4005 bar at 20 °C
value: 30
unit: W/m K
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temperature: 20 °C
method: Value printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Physical properties table, row thermal conductivity at 20 °C (W/m K)
- benchmark: thermal_conductivity
label: Thermal conductivity, 1.4005 bar (no temperature)
value: 24.9
unit: W/m.K
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (416)
temperature: not stated
method: Value printed in a stockholder datasheet
status: ground
source: aalco-416
where: Properties table, row Thermal Conductivity
- benchmark: thermal_conductivity
label: Thermal conductivity, 416 at 212 °F
value: 171.8
unit: Btu·ft/ft2·hr·°F
scope: material
conditions:
temperature: 212 °F
condition: annealed (values for room-temperature properties; temperature column 212 °F)
method: Value printed in a corporate bulletin
status: ground
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Physical Properties block, Thermal Conductivity row, column 212
- benchmark: specific_heat
label: Specific heat capacity, 1.4005 bar at 20 °C
value: 460
unit: J/kg K
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temperature: 20 °C
method: Value printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Physical properties table, row specific heat capacity at 20 °C (J/kg K)
- benchmark: cte
label: Thermal expansion, 1.4005 bar, 20 to 100 °C
value: 10.5
unit: 10^-6/K
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temperature: 20 to 100 °C
unit_in_source: 10.5 x 10-6 (K-1)
method: Value printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Physical properties table, row thermal expansion, 20 to 100 °C
- benchmark: cte
label: Thermal expansion, 1.4005 bar, 20 to 300 °C
value: 11.5
unit: 10^-6/K
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temperature: 20 to 300 °C
unit_in_source: 11.5 x 10-6 (K-1)
method: Value printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Physical properties table, row thermal expansion, 20 to 300 °C
- benchmark: cte
label: Thermal expansion, 416 from 70 °F to 212 °F
value: 5.6
unit: in/in°F x 10-6
scope: material
conditions:
temperature: 70 °F to 212 °F
note: coefficient measured from 70 °F to the indicated temperature
method: Value printed in a corporate bulletin
status: ground
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Physical Properties block, Coefficient of Thermal Expansion row, column 212
- benchmark: cte
label: Thermal expansion, 1.4005 (no temperature)
value: 9.9
unit: 10^-6/K
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (416)
temperature: not stated
method: Value printed in a stockholder datasheet
status: ground
source: aalco-416
where: Properties table, row Thermal Expansion
- benchmark: elastic_modulus
label: Modulus of elasticity, 1.4005 bar
value: 200
unit: GPa
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (416)
temperature: not stated
method: Value printed in a stockholder datasheet
status: ground
source: aalco-416
where: Properties table, row Modulus of Elasticity
- benchmark: elastic_modulus
label: Modulus of elasticity, AISI 416 range
value: 190
value_high: 215
bound: range
unit: GPa
scope: material
conditions:
temperature: 0 to 30 °C
condition: not stated
method: Range printed in a materials database
status: ground
source: totalmateria-416
where: Physical properties list, Modulus of Elasticity row
- benchmark: electrical_resistivity
label: Electrical resistivity, 1.4005 bar at 20 °C
value: 0.6
unit: Ω mm2/m
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temperature: 20 °C
method: Value printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Physical properties table, row electrical resistivity at 20 °C (Ω mm2/m)
- benchmark: max_service_temp
label: Maximum service temperature for scaling, continuous service
value: 675
unit: °C
scope: material
conditions:
service: continuous
property: scaling resistance, not a mechanical limit
method: Value printed in a stockholder datasheet
status: ground
source: aalco-416
where: Heat Resistance section, continuous service value
- benchmark: yield_strength
label: Proof stress, 1.4005 bar up to 160 mm, EN 10088-3
value: 450
bound: lower
unit: MPa
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (416)
product_form: bar up to 160 mm diameter or thickness
spec: EN 10088-3:2005
temper: not named on the page
method: Minimum value printed in a stockholder datasheet
status: ground
source: aalco-416
where: Mechanical Properties section, row Proof Stress, 450 Min MPa
- benchmark: yield_strength
label: Yield strength Rp0.2, 1.4005 QT650 (minimum)
value: 450
bound: lower
unit: N/mm2
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temper: QT650 (quenched and tempered, tempered 680 to 780 °C)
spec: EN 10088-3
method: Specification minimum printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Heat treatment and mechanical properties, QT 650 table, row yield strength Rp0.2, specification column
- benchmark: yield_strength
label: Yield strength Rp0.2, 1.4005 QT650 (typical)
value: 480
unit: N/mm2
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temper: QT650
method: Typical value printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Heat treatment and mechanical properties, QT 650 table, row yield strength Rp0.2, typical column
- benchmark: yield_strength
label: Yield strength, 416 annealed
value: 40
value_high: 50
bound: range
unit: ksi
scope: material
conditions:
temper: annealed
temperature: 70 °F (room temperature)
measure: 0.2% yield
method: Range printed in a corporate bulletin
status: ground
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Mechanical Properties block, row 0.2% Yield Strength, column 70
- benchmark: yield_strength
label: Yield strength, 416 tempered at 900 °F
value: 138
unit: ksi
scope: material
conditions:
temper: heat treated at 900 °F, tested at room temperature
measure: 0.2% yield
method: Value printed in a corporate bulletin
status: ground
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Mechanical Properties block, row 0.2% Yield Strength, column 900
- benchmark: ultimate_tensile_strength
label: Tensile strength, 1.4005 QT650 (specification)
value: 650
value_high: 850
bound: range
unit: N/mm2
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temper: QT650
spec: EN 10088-3
method: Specification range printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Heat treatment and mechanical properties, QT 650 table, row tensile strength Rm, specification column
- benchmark: ultimate_tensile_strength
label: Tensile strength, 1.4005 QT650 (typical)
value: 710
unit: N/mm2
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temper: QT650
method: Typical value printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Heat treatment and mechanical properties, QT 650 table, row tensile strength Rm, typical column
- benchmark: ultimate_tensile_strength
label: Tensile strength, 1.4005 annealed (specification maximum)
value: 730
bound: upper
unit: N/mm2
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temper: annealed (heated 745 to 825 °C, furnace cooled)
method: Specification maximum printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Heat treatment and mechanical properties, annealed table, row tensile strength Rm, Specification column
- benchmark: ultimate_tensile_strength
label: Tensile strength, 1.4005 bar (EN 10088-3)
value: 650
value_high: 850
bound: range
unit: MPa
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (416)
product_form: bar up to 160 mm
spec: EN 10088-3:2005
method: Range printed in a stockholder datasheet
status: ground
source: aalco-416
where: Mechanical Properties section, row Tensile Strength, 650 - 850 MPa
- benchmark: ultimate_tensile_strength
label: Tensile strength, 416 annealed
value: 75
value_high: 90
bound: range
unit: ksi
scope: material
conditions:
temper: annealed
temperature: 70 °F (room temperature)
method: Range printed in a corporate bulletin
status: ground
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Mechanical Properties block, row Ultimate Tensile Strength, column 70
- benchmark: ultimate_tensile_strength
label: Tensile strength, 416 tempered at 900 °F
value: 170
unit: ksi
scope: material
conditions:
temper: heat treated at 900 °F, tested at room temperature
method: Value printed in a corporate bulletin
status: ground
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Mechanical Properties block, row Ultimate Tensile Strength, column 900
- benchmark: elongation
label: Elongation A5, 1.4005 QT650 (minimum)
value: 12
bound: lower
unit: '%'
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temper: QT650
spec: EN 10088-3
method: Specification minimum printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Heat treatment and mechanical properties, QT 650 table, row tensile elongation A5, specification column
- benchmark: elongation
label: Elongation A5, 1.4005 QT650 (typical)
value: 14
unit: '%'
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temper: QT650
method: Typical value printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Heat treatment and mechanical properties, QT 650 table, row tensile elongation A5, typical column
- benchmark: elongation
label: Elongation, 416 annealed
value: 15
value_high: 30
bound: range
unit: '%'
scope: material
conditions:
temper: annealed
temperature: 70 °F (room temperature)
method: Range printed in a corporate bulletin
status: ground
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Mechanical Properties block, row Elongation, column 70
- benchmark: elongation
label: Elongation, 416 tempered at 900 °F
value: 18
unit: '%'
scope: material
conditions:
temper: heat treated at 900 °F, tested at room temperature
method: Value printed in a corporate bulletin
status: ground
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Mechanical Properties block, row Elongation, column 900
- benchmark: hardness_brinell
label: Brinell hardness, 1.4005 annealed (specification maximum)
value: 220
bound: upper
unit: HB
scope: material
conditions:
grade: 1.4005 (X12CrS13)
temper: annealed
method: Specification maximum printed in a manufacturer datasheet
status: ground
source: dew-14005
where: Heat treatment and mechanical properties, annealed table, row hardness HB, Specification column
- benchmark: hardness_brinell
label: Brinell hardness, 416 tempered at 900 °F
value: 385
unit: HB
scope: material
conditions:
temper: heat treated at 900 °F, tested at room temperature
method: Value printed in a corporate bulletin
status: ground
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Mechanical Properties block, row Hardness Brinell, column 900
- benchmark: hardness_rockwell_c
label: Hardness after hardening, 416
value: 26
value_high: 32
bound: range
unit: RC
scope: material
conditions:
temper: hardened by heat treatment
note: Rockwell C hardness as printed in the Features list
method: Range printed in a corporate bulletin
status: ground
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Features list, first bullet on hardenability
- benchmark: reduction_of_area
label: Reduction of area, 416 annealed
value: 40
value_high: 60
bound: range
unit: '%'
scope: material
conditions:
temper: annealed
temperature: 70 °F (room temperature)
method: Range printed in a corporate bulletin
status: ground
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Mechanical Properties block, row Reduction in Area, column 70
corrosion:
- environment: Dry atmosphere, fresh water, mild alkalis and mild acids
headline: Useful resistance in mild conditions, but below the non-free-machining grades.
effect: The Aalco datasheet says 416 has useful resistance to dry atmospheres, fresh water and mild alkalis and acids, but is less resistant than the equivalent non-free-machining grades. The Rolled Alloys sheet says 416 is highly resistant to typical atmospheric conditions, and that maximum corrosion resistance comes from hardening and polishing.
rating: low
conditions:
basis: datasheet statements, no test rates given
source: aalco-416
where: Corrosion Resistance section (Aalco); Introduction (Rolled Alloys)
- environment: Marine or chloride exposure
headline: Not suitable for marine or chloride exposure.
effect: The Aalco datasheet calls high-sulphur free-machining grades such as 416 totally unsuitable for marine or other chloride exposure. The Upmet and Continental sheets do not describe chloride resistance.
rating: severe
conditions:
basis: datasheet statement
source: aalco-416
where: Corrosion Resistance section
- environment: Crevice and pitting conditions
headline: Sulfur makes crevice and pitting corrosion a specification concern.
effect: The DEW datasheet says that although 1.4005 has a nominal 13 % chromium, its corrosion resistance is compromised by the sulfur addition, and that care should be taken where crevice or pitting corrosion may occur. It calls 1.4005 probably the least corrosion-resistant of the stainless steel grades.
rating: severe
conditions:
basis: datasheet statement, no test data
source: dew-14005
where: Corrosion section, first paragraph
- environment: Compared with 410 and austenitic grades
headline: Lower than 410 and the austenitic grades.
effect: The Aalco datasheet says the sulphur addition lowers corrosion resistance, weldability and formability below those of the non-free-machining grade 410, and that corrosion resistance is lower than the common austenitic grades.
rating: moderate
conditions:
basis: datasheet comparison, no rates given
source: aalco-416
where: Introduction and Corrosion Resistance section
- environment: Hardened and polished surface
headline: Best corrosion resistance is in the hardened condition with a smooth finish.
effect: The Aalco datasheet says maximum corrosion resistance is achieved in the hardened condition with a smooth surface finish. The Rolled Alloys sheet says the same, through hardening and polishing.
rating: moderate
conditions:
basis: datasheet statement
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Introduction paragraph
risks:
hazards:
- text: The GPT Industries stainless steel SDS says stainless steel is considered an article and not hazardous in its solid form. Cutting, milling, grinding, melting and welding can emit hazardous materials. The sheet is generic for stainless steel and does not name 416.
ghs: []
source: gpt-ss-sds
where: Section 2, Classification
- text: The same SDS lists carcinogenicity Category 1B, respiratory sensitizer Category 1, specific target organ toxicity (repeated exposure) Category 1 and toxic to reproduction Category 1B for the hazardous elements that can be emitted during processing.
ghs: []
source: gpt-ss-sds
where: Section 2, GHS classification table
- text: The SDS says metal fumes can form during welding, burning, melting or hot rolling, and that hexavalent chromium may result from pickling stainless steel. It gives an iron-containing welding fume exposure limit of 5 mg/m3 (ACGIH TLV, 2011).
ghs: []
source: gpt-ss-sds
where: Section 8 and Section 10, Hazardous decomposition products
failure_risks:
- mode: Weld cracking and loss of properties
trigger: Welding 416 without the annealing or stress relief that the datasheets call for
consequence: The Aalco datasheet says 416 has poor weldability and needs a low-hydrogen 410 electrode, preheat to 200 to 300 °C, and an immediate anneal or stress relief at 650 to 675 °C. The Rolled Alloys sheet says free-machining grades are usually not welded and must be annealed after welding at about 1450 °F.
severity: moderate
source: aalco-416
where: Weldability section; Rolled Alloys bulletin Introduction
- mode: Cracking under cold deformation
trigger: Severe cold forming
consequence: The Aalco datasheet says cold working is suitable only for minor deformation and that severe deformation will result in cracking.
severity: moderate
source: aalco-416
where: Cold Working section
- mode: Embrittlement in the 475 °C range
trigger: Processing or service between 425 and 525 °C
consequence: The DEW datasheet says 475 embrittlement occurs in this range, and that processing or service there should be avoided or minimised.
severity: moderate
source: dew-14005
where: Elevated temperature properties section
- mode: Loss of strength by over-tempering
trigger: Service or heating above the relevant tempering temperature
consequence: The Aalco datasheet says the grade should not be used above its tempering temperature if the mechanical properties must be kept, and that its useful range is limited by low ductility at sub-zero temperatures and loss of strength from over-tempering at elevated temperatures.
severity: moderate
source: aalco-416
where: Heat Resistance and Introduction sections
- mode: Corrosion from chlorides, sulfur-induced pitting and crevices
trigger: Marine, chloride or crevice conditions
consequence: The Aalco datasheet calls high-sulphur grades totally unsuitable for marine or chloride exposure, and the DEW datasheet warns about pitting and crevice corrosion.
severity: critical
source: dew-14005
where: Corrosion section
side_effects:
- text: Sulfur is added on purpose for machinability, forming manganese sulfide inclusions that act as chip breakers. The same sulfur lowers corrosion resistance, weldability and formability, according to the Aalco datasheet.
affects: Corrosion resistance, weld quality and forming
source: aalco-416
where: Introduction section
handling:
- text: 'Heat treat to the required temper: the DEW datasheet gives hardening at 950 to 1000 °C with air or oil quench and QT650 tempering at 680 to 780 °C. The Aalco datasheet gives hardening at 925 to 1010 °C with an oil quench and full annealing at 815 to 900 °C.'
source: dew-14005
where: Heat treatment section; Aalco heat treatment section
- text: The Totalmateria page gives annealing at 816 to 899 °C with a furnace cool to 593 °C, and a subcritical anneal at 649 to 788 °C with air cooling.
source: totalmateria-416
where: Heat treatment entries
- text: Wear dust and fume protection when machining, grinding or welding. The GPT SDS says these processes can emit hazardous material even though the solid is not hazardous.
source: gpt-ss-sds
where: Section 2 and Section 8
mitigations:
- text: The Aalco datasheet says best machinability is in the sub-critical annealed condition, which keeps machining cost down before the final hardening and tempering.
source: aalco-416
where: Machinability section
uses:
- application: mechanisms
device: Axles, shafts and gears
example: The Rolled Alloys sheet lists axles, shafts and gears among the typical applications of 416. The DEW datasheet calls 1.4005 a special grade for shaft material.
source: rolled-bulletin-416
where: Applications list; DEW datasheet special grade for particular use
- application: mechanisms
device: Automatic screw-machine parts and pump and valve components
example: The Rolled Alloys sheet lists automatic screw-machine parts and pump and valve components. The Aalco datasheet lists valve parts, pump shafts, automatic screw-machined parts, motor shafts and gears.
source: aalco-416
where: Typical applications list
- application: structures
device: Fasteners, bolts, nuts and studs
example: The Upmet sheet lists fasteners and fittings. The Aalco datasheet lists bolts, nuts and studs among typical applications.
source: upmet-416
where: Industry Applications list
supply:
- subject: Chromium (12 to 14 % of the alloy)
producers:
- country: South Africa
share_percent: 45.1
year: 2025
- country: Turkey
share_percent: 17.6
year: 2025
- country: Kazakhstan
share_percent: 13.7
year: 2025
- country: India
share_percent: 5.9
year: 2025
critical_lists: []
recycling: 'USGS: recycled chromium, contained in reported stainless-steel scrap receipts, accounted for 21 % of 2025 apparent consumption. The United States imported 79 % of its apparent consumption (2025e).'
substitutes:
- 'USGS: chromium has no substitute in stainless steel, the leading end use.'
source: usgs-mcs2026-chromium
where: World Mine Production and Reserves table, 2025e column, world total 51,000 thousand t (gross weight, Space Mushroom calculated the shares from the country values 23,000; 9,000; 7,000; 3,000); Recycling paragraph; Salient Statistics, net import reliance row; Substitutes paragraph
documents:
- title: Swiss Steel (Deutsche Edelstahlwerke) datasheet 1.4005 X12CrS13, revision 4005-1
type: datasheet
url: https://swisssteel-group.com/content-media/documents/Data-Sheets/Stainless-Steel/1.4005_en.pdf
- title: Aalco datasheet, Stainless Steel 1.4005 (416) Bar, EN 10088-3
type: datasheet
url: https://www.aalco.co.uk/datasheets/Stainless-Steel-14005-416-Bar_108.ashx
- title: Rolled Alloys Bulletin 416U, 416 Stainless data sheet (2018)
type: datasheet
url: https://www.rolledalloys.ca/wp-content/uploads/416_stainless-steel-data-sheet-rolled-alloys.pdf
year: 2018
- title: Upmet datasheet, Alloy 416 UNS S41600 plate
type: datasheet
url: https://upmet.com/sites/default/files/datasheets/416-stainless.pdf
- title: GPT Industries stainless steel safety data sheet
type: sds
url: https://www.gptindustries.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Stainless-Steel-Safety-Data-Sheet.pdf
year: 2022
- title: 'USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026: Chromium'
type: report
url: https://pubs.usgs.gov/periodicals/mcs2026/mcs2026-chromium.pdf
year: 2026
- title: Totalmateria, AISI 416 stainless steels
type: database
url: https://www.totalmateria.com/en-us/material/1250364
gaps:
- Electrical conductivity (% IACS or MS/m) of 416 was not found. Only the DEW electrical resistivity row (0.60 Ω mm2/m at 20 °C) is recorded. Rolled Alloys prints resistivity in a unit that is unclear in the PDF text ('micro Hm•in'), so it was left out.
- Hardness (Brinell, Rockwell C), reduction of area and Rockwell hardness are not in the property-canon file. They use the snake_case names hardness_brinell, hardness_rockwell_c and reduction_of_area.
- Hardness at room temperature in the annealed state from Rolled Alloys is shown as a dash (no value); the DEW annealed hardness is a maximum specification (220 HB), so no room-temperature annealed Brinell minimum is entered.
- The Totalmateria Brinell minimum of 223 HB and the tensile range of 485 to 1210 MPa have no printed condition, so they were left out.
- The Totalmateria yield and elongation entries and the Upmet hardness value B82 have no printed condition or unit, so they were left out. The Upmet electrical resistivity and thermal conductivity values have no printed unit, so they were left out.
- Continental Steel and the Atlas Steels page were read for composition and corrosion wording only. The Atlas Steels datasheet could not be read (compressed PDF), so its values were not used.
- No Carpenter or ATI Type 416 datasheet was found. The CarTech and Carpenter 416 variants (Project 70, Project 70+, 416BQ, No. 5 BQ) are other grades or variants and were left out of designations.
- The 416 SDS entry is a generic stainless steel SDS from GPT Industries that does not name 416. No 416-specific SDS was found.
- Welding fume composition for 416 and machining fume exposure limits were not found.
- No cryogenic (below 0 °C) tensile or toughness numbers were found, only the Aalco statement that ductility is lost at sub-zero temperatures.
- Radiation, outgassing, atomic-oxygen and cold-welding results for 416 were not searched; no flight data for this grade were looked up.
- Critical-mineral listing status for chromium was not printed in the MCS 2026 chromium text that was read, so critical_lists is empty.
- Abundance of chromium in the crust and the share of chromium in lunar or Martian regolith were not looked up.
- The Wikipedia stainless steel article was fetched for context, but it does not mention 416 and is not cited for any value.
sources:
dew-14005:
title: Deutsche Edelstahlwerke (Swiss Steel Group) datasheet, 1.4005 X12CrS13, revision 4005-1
url: https://swisssteel-group.com/content-media/documents/Data-Sheets/Stainless-Steel/1.4005_en.pdf
year: 2007
kind: datasheet
license: Manufacturer datasheet (cited, not reproduced)
aalco-416:
title: Aalco, Stainless Steel 1.4005 (416) Bar, datasheet (EN 10088-3)
url: https://www.aalco.co.uk/datasheets/Stainless-Steel-14005-416-Bar_108.ashx
kind: datasheet
license: Stockholder datasheet (cited, not reproduced)
rolled-bulletin-416:
title: Rolled Alloys, Bulletin No. 416U, 416 Stainless data sheet
id: Bulletin No. 416U, 03/18
url: https://www.rolledalloys.ca/wp-content/uploads/416_stainless-steel-data-sheet-rolled-alloys.pdf
year: 2018
kind: datasheet
license: Manufacturer datasheet, copyright Rolled Alloys (cited, not reproduced)
rolled-416-page:
title: Rolled Alloys, Stainless 416 product page
url: https://www.rolledalloys.ca/products/stainless-steel/stainless-416/
kind: web
license: Manufacturer web page (cited, not reproduced)
continental-416:
title: Continental Steel, Alloy 416 (Type 416) grade page
url: https://continentalsteel.com/stainless-steel/grades/alloy-416/
kind: web
license: Supplier web page (cited, not reproduced)
totalmateria-416:
title: Totalmateria, AISI 416 stainless steels
url: https://www.totalmateria.com/en-us/material/1250364
kind: database
license: Materials database page (cited, not reproduced)
upmet-416:
title: United Performance Metals, Alloy 416 UNS S41600 plate datasheet
url: https://upmet.com/sites/default/files/datasheets/416-stainless.pdf
kind: datasheet
license: Supplier datasheet (cited, not reproduced)
gpt-ss-sds:
title: GPT Industries, Safety Data Sheet, Stainless Steel (generic, all grades)
url: https://www.gptindustries.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Stainless-Steel-Safety-Data-Sheet.pdf
year: 2022
kind: datasheet
license: Safety data sheet (cited, not reproduced)
usgs-mcs2026-chromium:
title: USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026, Chromium
id: USGS MCS 2026
url: https://pubs.usgs.gov/periodicals/mcs2026/mcs2026-chromium.pdf
year: 2026
kind: report
license: Public domain (USGS)
license: CC-BY-4.0
updated: '2026-10-25'
review:
status: draft
method: assistant
checked_values: 35
unreachable: 3
caveats: 6
note: 'Values read by an AI assistant on 2026-10-25 from the pages and PDFs named in each entry (PDFs extracted with pdftotext; HTML pages read through the fetch tool). Unreachable or unreadable: the Atlas Steels datasheet (compressed PDF), the Carpenter datasheet (not found), and a 403 on the makeitfrom 416 pages. Caveats: most strength values are datasheet minimums or ranges for one or two tempers, the Rolled Alloys values are in ksi, the USGS supply shares are calculated from printed country values, the GPT SDS is generic stainless steel and does not name 416, and the corrosion statements are qualitative.'
story:
recipe:
line: 'AISI 416 is an iron-chromium steel with 12 to 14 % chromium, carbon up to 0.15 %, and a deliberate sulfur addition of at least 0.15 %. The sulfur is added for machinability (Rolled Alloys, Aalco). The Rolled Alloys sheet gives the composition as a minimum and maximum table, with iron as the balance. The steel is heat treated after forming: full or sub-critical annealing, then hardening and tempering (DEW, Aalco).'
parts:
- name: Chromium
symbol: Cr
share: 12.0 to 14.0 % (min to max)
role: The stainless element. It forms the passive film that gives stainless steel its corrosion resistance, and it sets the martensitic structure, which lets the grade be hardened.
- name: Carbon
symbol: C
share: 0.15 % maximum (Rolled Alloys); 0.06 to 0.15 % (Aalco)
role: Limit set in the composition table of the Rolled Alloys sheet.
- name: Sulfur
symbol: S
share: 0.15 % minimum (Rolled Alloys)
role: The free-machining addition. It forms manganese sulfide inclusions that act as chip breakers, and it lowers corrosion resistance and weldability.
- name: Manganese
symbol: Mn
share: 1.25 % maximum
role: Limit set in the composition table of the Rolled Alloys sheet.
- name: Silicon
symbol: Si
share: 1.0 % maximum
role: Limit set in the composition table of the Rolled Alloys sheet.
- name: Phosphorus
symbol: P
share: 0.06 % maximum
role: Limit set in the composition table of the Rolled Alloys sheet. Aalco describes phosphorus as an addition for machinability.
- name: Molybdenum
symbol: Mo
share: 0.60 % maximum
role: Limit set in the composition table of the Rolled Alloys sheet.
- name: Iron
symbol: Fe
share: balance
role: The base metal.
risk_groups:
- title: For people
lead: The solid steel is an article under the GPT SDS, but cutting, grinding, melting and welding give off fume and dust.
level: 1
verdict: Hazard comes from processing
points:
- label: Solid form
line: The GPT Industries SDS calls stainless steel an article that is not hazardous in its solid form. The sheet is generic and does not name 416.
- label: Processing
line: Cutting, milling, grinding, melting and welding can emit hazardous materials. The SDS lists carcinogenicity Category 1B and respiratory sensitizer Category 1 for the emitted elements, and it says fumes and dust should be controlled.
- title: If it fails
lead: The failure routes in the sources are weld cracking, sulfur-driven corrosion, and 475 embrittlement.
points:
- label: Welding
line: Aalco says 416 has poor weldability and needs annealing or stress relief after any weld. Rolled Alloys says free-machining grades are usually not welded.
- label: Chlorides
line: Aalco calls high-sulfur free-machining grades totally unsuitable for marine or chloride exposure.
- label: 475 range
line: The DEW datasheet says processing or service between 425 and 525 °C should be avoided because of 475 embrittlement.
- title: Handling and storage
points:
- label: Specify the temper
line: Strength depends on temper. Annealed the DEW datasheet gives a maximum of 730 MPa tensile strength; quenched and tempered to QT650 it gives 650 to 850 MPa.
- label: Keep it dry
line: Keep parts away from chlorides, and use the hardened and polished condition where corrosion matters most (Aalco, Rolled Alloys).
why: 'AISI 416 is the free-machining version of 12 % chromium martensitic stainless steel. Sulfur added to the 416 chemistry lets it be machined at high speed on automatic lathes, while it can still be hardened by heat treatment. The DEW datasheet describes it as the shaft-material grade for automated machining. The price of that machinability is corrosion resistance: Aalco says the sulfur lowers corrosion resistance below the non-free-machining grade 410.'
uses:
- where: Shafts, axles and gears
line: The Rolled Alloys sheet lists axles, shafts and gears as typical uses. The DEW datasheet calls 1.4005 a special grade for shaft material.
- where: Screw-machine and pump or valve parts
line: Automatic screw-machine parts, pump components and valve parts are listed by Rolled Alloys and Aalco.
- where: Fasteners
line: Bolts, nuts and studs are listed by Aalco. Upmet lists fasteners and fittings.
can_do:
- label: Machine fast
value: about 85 % of free-machining carbon steel
line: Aalco says grade 416 has the highest machinability of any stainless steel, at about 85 % of that of a free-machining carbon steel. Upmet gives the same figure.
- label: Harden
value: 26 to 32 RC
benchmark: hardness_rockwell_c
line: The Rolled Alloys sheet says 416 can be hardened by heat treatment to 26 to 32 RC.
- label: Carry load when quenched and tempered
value: at least 450 MPa yield, 650 to 850 MPa tensile
benchmark: yield_strength
line: In the QT650 condition, the EN 10088-3 values are a minimum yield strength of 450 MPa and a tensile strength of 650 to 850 MPa, with a minimum A5 of 12 %.
- label: Weight
value: 7.7 kg/dm3
benchmark: density
line: The DEW datasheet gives a density of 7.7 kg/dm3. Aalco gives 7.75 g/cm3 for the same grade.
- label: Heat
value: 30 W/m K at 20 °C
benchmark: thermal_conductivity
line: The DEW datasheet gives a thermal conductivity of 30 W/m K at 20 °C. Aalco gives 24.9 W/m.K without a temperature.
compare: Against the non-free-machining grade 410, Aalco says 416 has lower corrosion resistance, weldability and formability because of its sulfur. Against the austenitic grades, Aalco says corrosion resistance is lower. This profile holds no 410 or austenitic values, so the comparison rests on the statements in the datasheets.
compare_rows:
- label: Density
benchmark: density
- label: Thermal conductivity
benchmark: thermal_conductivity
- label: Thermal expansion
benchmark: cte
handling:
- Specify the temper, because annealed, QT650 and hardened grades differ by a wide margin in strength.
- Avoid chloride exposure. Aalco calls high-sulfur free-machining grades totally unsuitable for marine or chloride service.
- Weld only with a plan for annealing or stress relief afterwards, as Aalco and DEW both advise.
good_for:
- Shafts, axles and gears that are machined from bar.
- Automatic screw-machine parts, where machinability is the main requirement.
- Parts that are hardened and tempered, when the service environment is dry.
watch_out:
- 'Corrosion: the sulfur addition lowers corrosion resistance below grade 410 (Aalco, DEW).'
- Welding is poor and needs post-weld annealing or stress relief (Aalco, Rolled Alloys).
- The 475 range (425 to 525 °C) should be avoided (DEW).
- No cryogenic or radiation numbers were found for this grade.
verdict: AISI 416 is the free-machining stainless steel. It machines well and hardens to 26 to 32 RC, but the sulfur that makes it machinable makes it one of the least corrosion-resistant stainless grades. It is a shaft and screw-machine grade for dry service, not a marine or welded-structure grade.
References
Every number above carries a reference number. Click one to see the source and where in it the value comes from.
| # | Source | Type | Year | Used for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deutsche Edelstahlwerke (Swiss Steel Group) datasheet, 1.4005 X12CrS13, revision 4005-1 | datasheet | 2007 | 18 values | |
| Aalco, Stainless Steel 1.4005 (416) Bar, datasheet (EN 10088-3) | datasheet | 16 values | ||
| Rolled Alloys, Bulletin No. 416U, 416 Stainless data sheet | datasheet | 2018 | 15 values | |
| Rolled Alloys, Stainless 416 product page | web | 0 values | ||
| Continental Steel, Alloy 416 (Type 416) grade page | web | 0 values | ||
| Totalmateria, AISI 416 stainless steels | database | 2 values | ||
| United Performance Metals, Alloy 416 UNS S41600 plate datasheet | datasheet | 2 values | ||
| GPT Industries, Safety Data Sheet, Stainless Steel (generic, all grades) | datasheet | 2022 | 4 values | |
| USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026, Chromium | report | 2026 | 1 value |