Comparative Study on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Various Stainless Steels
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37628/ijied.v8i2.1615Abstract
Stainless steels are widely utilized in engineering, biomedical, and industrial applications due to their superior corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. Among them, AISI 304, 316, 202, and 410 grades are extensively used in structural, chemical, and mechanical industries. However, the performance of these alloys is strongly influenced by their chemical composition, heat treatment, and microstructural evolution. In this work, the microstructure and mechanical properties of AISI 304SS, 316SS, 202SS, and 410SS were studied in both untreated and thermally treated conditions. The specimens were subjected to compositional analysis, hardness testing, tensile testing, and metallographic observation. Heat treatment was performed at 650 °C for 60 minutes followed by air cooling. Results indicated that AISI 316SS exhibited the highest hardness (251 BHN) and elongation (37.78%), while AISI 202SS showed the maximum tensile strength (914.1 MPa). Microstructural examination revealed carbide precipitation in 202SS after heat treatment, while 316SS remained free from carbide sensitization. These findings highlight the distinct structure–property relationships across stainless steel grades, providing valuable insights for material selection in engineering applications.
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