Key Feature

The High-Strength Work-Hardening Austenitic Pipe. Unique ability to develop exceptional strength (up to 1500+ MPa) through cold working alone, enabling high-strength applications without heat treatment.

The highest strength potential among standard austenitic stainless steel pipes through cold working.

Common Designations

UNS S30100
AISI 301
ASTM A554 (Welded Mechanical Tubing)
EN 1.4310, X10CrNi18-8
JIS SUS301

Often specified by temper condition (annealed, 1/4H, 1/2H, 3/4H, full hard).

Chemical Composition (Typical wt.%)

C: ≤ 0.15
Cr: 16.0 - 18.0
Ni: 6.0 - 8.0Mn: ≤ 2.00
Si: ≤ 1.00
P: ≤ 0.045
S: ≤ 0.030

Lower nickel than 304 (6-8% vs 8-10.5%) enables strain-induced martensite formation.

Mechanical Properties by Temper

Annealed: Rm ≥515 MPa, Rp0.2 ≥205 MPa, A ≥40%
1/4 Hard: Rm ≥860 MPa, Rp0.2 ≥515 MPa, A ≥25%
1/2 Hard: Rm ≥1035 MPa, Rp0.2 ≥760 MPa, A ≥18%
3/4 Hard: Rm ≥1210 MPa, Rp0.2 ≥930 MPa, A ≥12%
Full Hard: Rm ≥1275 MPa, Rp0.2 ≥965 MPa, A ≥9%

Strength increases dramatically with cold work; ductility decreases correspondingly.

Physical Properties

Density: 7.90 g/cm³
Melting Range: 1399 - 1454 °C
Thermal Expansion: 17.0 × 10⁻⁶/K (20-100°C)
Magnetic Response: Becomes magnetic when cold worked

Transformation to martensite during cold working induces magnetism.

Work Hardening Mechanism

Strain-induced transformation of austenite to martensite during cold working. Rate depends on temperature, strain rate, and initial condition.

Unique among 300-series stainless steels; enables extraordinary strengthening.

Corrosion Resistance

Good general corrosion resistance similar to 304 in annealed condition. May decrease slightly in heavily cold-worked areas due to martensite formation.

Suitable for most atmospheric and mild chemical environments; not for severe chloride exposure.

Welding Characteristics

Possible strength reduction in HAZ
Annealing effect in weld area
Post-weld cold work may be required
Matching filler metals recommended

Welding can soften cold-worked material; may require re-work-hardening.

Pressure Ratings

Varies significantly with temperAnnealed: Similar to 304
Cold-worked: Much higher ratings
Consult manufacturer for specific values

Cold-worked tempers offer substantial pressure capability improvements.

Key Standards

ASTM A554: Welded Mechanical Tubing
ASTM A632: Seamless & Welded Small Diameter Tube
AMS 5519 (Aerospace)
EN 10296-2: Welded Circular Tubes
JIS G3446: Light Gauge Welded Tubes

Typically specified by both grade and temper condition.

Common Applications

• Aerospace: Aircraft structural tubing, hydraulic lines, frame components
• Automotive: High-strength structural members, roll cages, chassis components
• Rail Transportation: Carriage frames, structural supports, undercarriage components
• Industrial Equipment: High-strength machine frames, conveyor components
• Architectural: Structural handrails, high-load architectural elements
• Medical Equipment: High-strength equipment frames, mobility aids
• Consumer Products: High-performance bicycle frames, sporting equipment

Specifically selected where high strength and formability are required.