Woven wire is a popular screening material known for its balance between accuracy, durability, and cost-effectiveness. A key component of achieving this performance balance is the alloy used to weave the mesh.
Stainless steel stands as one of the most widely used alloys in the wire weaving industry. Having said that, there are dozens of variations of stainless steel, such as 314 stainless steel and 330 stainless steel, that you must scrutinize.
So, which alloy makes more sense for you: 314 or 330 stainless steel.
W.S. Tyler has been helping customers weave custom woven wire solutions into their operation for over 150 years and is here to help you address the complex decision of what woven wire alloy to use.
With that, this article was written to explore the differences between 314 and 330 stainless steel. You will learn:
314 stainless steel is classified as an austenitic alloy with similar qualities to type 310 stainless steel. It is made up of carbon (.25%), chromium (23-26%), nickel (19-22%), manganese (2%), silicon (1.5-3%), and phosphorus (.045%).
The heightened level of silicon works to improve its resistance to oxidation and extreme temperatures. In fact, 314 is known to have some of the best resistance to oxidation and high temperatures than any other chromium-nickel stainless steel alloy.
The most notable reason 314 stainless steel is used is its favorable heat resistance. Performing in environments reaching 2102F (1150C), 314 stainless steel delivers heat resistance that outperforms many other stainless steel alloys.
To that end, 314 also delivers undeniable resistance to oxidation. Even when subjected to the higher temperatures listed above, 314 stainless steel resists scaling and maintains its strength.
Now, despite its superior heat resistance, 314 stainless steel features rather impressive weldability.
For more information on welding woven wire mesh, read the article below:
One last benefit of note is its density. 314 stainless steel is more dense than comparable alloys, allowing it to accommodate high strength requirements.
Something that you must be mindful of when integrating woven wire fabricated from 314 stainless steel is its corrosion resistance. Despite having a very favorable resistance to oxidation, its corrosion resistance is not nearly as robust as other austenitic alloys.
On a lesser note, 314 stainless steel is non-magnetic, which can be problematic for specific applications.
Now, while it is often used in applications in which extreme heat is present, 314 has relatively low thermal conductivity. This makes it less favorable for applications in which heat transfer is required.
To that end, it is not recommended for use in extremely low-temperature applications.
When working and forming 314 stainless steel, it is essential that you keep work hardening in mind. 314 stainless steel is known to become more rigid and less ductile after mechanical processing is applied.
330 stainless steel is an austenitic stainless alloy designed to combat oxidation and carburization when subjected to extreme heat. It is made up of carbon (.08%), chromium (18-20%), nickel (34-37%), manganese (2%), silicon (.75-1.5%), and phosphorus (.03%).
The high presence of silicon helps to improve the alloy's resistance to oxidation.
Much like 314 stainless steel, 330 stainless steel is known for its ability to withstand high-temperature environments. Its composition allows it to maintain peak durability and oxidation resistance when subjected to temperatures reaching 2200F (1204C).
Looking for more information regarding the effect temperature can have on woven wire? Learn about woven wire expansion and contraction:
Having said that, 330 stainless steel's chemical composition grants the alloy high strength and density. The composition also allows it to demonstrate favorable corrosion resistance in oxidizing and carburizing applications.
Now, despite its high-heat performance, 330 stainless steel can be welded with relative ease. It can also be formed into components used for heat treatment, conveyor systems, and other applications with extreme heat.
While 330 stainless steel has high resistance to oxidation, its resistance to corrosion is relatively limited. This renders it vulnerable when subjected to applications that expose the alloy to harsh acids and chlorides.
To that end, its high strength and hardness make it less ductile at cooler temperatures. This can make it harder to form and manipulate at room temperature than comparable alloys.
330 stainless steel, like 314 stainless steel, has lower thermal conductivity due to its resistance to extreme heat. Again, this makes it a non-desirable solution when heat transfer is key.
Looking at the high density of 330 stainless steel, the alloy is relatively heavy. This can be critical to applications in which component weight is a concern.
As with any other parameter surrounding woven wire, the alloy you use is dependent on the exact needs of your operation.
As stated above, 314 stainless steel can withstand temperatures reaching up to 2102F (1150C), whereas 330 stainless steel can withstand temperatures reaching up to 2200F (1204C). So, if you want peak performance in extreme heat, 330 is most likely the better option.
On the other hand, 314 is notably cheaper than 330 while delivering competitive performanc at less extreme conditions. 314 makes more sense financially when temperatures will not exceed 2102F (1150C).
This all goes to say that because both 314 and 330 are designed for use in furnaces, kilns, and other high-heat applications, the alloy that makes sense for you ultimately falls on the temperature requirements and environmental conditions of your process.
314 and 330 stainless steel are both woven wire alloys used to accommodate high-temperature applications. 330 offers higher heat resistance, and 314 offers better cost-effectiveness, but the alloy you should use is dedicated to the specific needs of your process.
While stainless steel alloys are a go-to solution when weaving woven wire, it's not necessarily the right choice for you. Specifically, when dealing with more extreme conditions, specialty alloys, like Inconel, must be used.
Having been in the wire weaving business for over 150 years, W.S. Tyler is here to help you properly integrate woven wire solutions designed to project your endeavors in making the world a cleaner, safer place.
To gain insight into how stainless steel stacks up against inconel, read the following article: