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UNS S41500 Chemical Composition: Detailed Breakdown

UNS S41500, a martensitic stainless steel also known as F6NM or AISI 415, is widely used for its balance of strength, toughness, and moderate corrosion resistance in applications like pressure vessels, valves, and offshore components. Its chemical composition is carefully controlled to ensure weldability (low carbon to avoid carbide precipitation) and enhanced properties via alloying elements like chromium, nickel, and molybdenum.

 Below is a comprehensive table of the chemical composition, based on standard specifications such as ASTM A240, A182, and equivalents like EN 1.4313. Values are given as percentages by weight (heat analysis), with maxima unless specified as ranges. This composition results in a low Carbon Equivalent (<0.40), making it suitable for welding without excessive preheat.

 

Chemical Composition Table

Element

% Range or Max

Typical Role in Properties

Carbon (C)

0.05 max

Minimizes brittleness and carbide formation for better ductility and corrosion resistance.

Manganese (Mn)

0.50-1.00

Acts as a deoxidizer and improves hardenability without significantly affecting corrosion.

Silicon (Si)

0.60 max

Enhances oxidation resistance and aids in deoxidation during melting.

Phosphorus (P)

0.030 max

Controlled impurity to maintain toughness and prevent intergranular corrosion.

Sulfur (S)

0.030 max

Limited to avoid hot shortness; trace amounts can improve machinability.

Chromium (Cr)

11.50-14.00

Provides primary corrosion resistance through passivation and oxide layer formation.

Molybdenum (Mo)

0.50-1.00

Boosts pitting and crevice corrosion resistance, especially in chloride environments.

Nickel (Ni)

3.50-5.50

Stabilizes the microstructure, improving toughness and austenite formation during heat treatment.

Nitrogen (N)

0.10 max

Adds strength as an interstitial element without compromising weldability.

Iron (Fe)

Balance

The base element forming the martensitic matrix.

This composition is consistent across sources and standards like ASTM A240 UNS S41500, where it's specified for plates and sheets. Minor variations may occur in product analysis (e.g., Cr up to 14.50% allowed), but heat analysis maxima are the benchmark for compliance. At Gangsteel, our production often achieves tighter controls (e.g., P and S <0.015%) for enhanced performance in sour service or high-stress applications.

 

Implications of the Composition

  • Corrosion Resistance: The high Cr (11.5-14%) and Mo (0.5-1%) give a PREN of ~18-22, effective against pitting in mild chlorides and H2S environments (NACE MR0175 compliant).
  • Strength and Toughness: Low C and added Ni (3.5-5.5%) prevent over-hardening, allowing tempering for optimal ductility while maintaining yield >620 MPa.
  • Weldability: Carbon Equivalent <0.40 reduces cracking risks; preheat 150-200°C recommended for thick sections.

For equivalents like EN 1.4313 (X3CrNiMo13-4), the composition is nearly identical, with slight adjustments in Mn or S for regional standards. If you need a full material data sheet or custom UNS S41500 stock (plates 1-200mm, $2,600-2,800/ton FOB), contact Gangsteel—we provide mill certs with detailed analysis. Explore our UNS S41500 stainless steel plate options for immediate availability.

 

 

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