301 is a metastable austenitic stainless steel with exceptional work-hardening rate, achieving tensile strength up to 1275 MPa through cold working, widely used in springs, fasteners, and structural components.
Key Properties
Work Hardening: Highest work-hardening rate among austenitic grades (~14 MPa per 1% reduction).
Strength Range: Seven temper grades from Annealed (515 MPa) to Full Hard (1275+ MPa).
Magnetic Behavior: Becomes increasingly magnetic with cold working due to austenite-to-martensite transformation.
Formability: Good ductility in annealed condition for bending and forming operations.
Common Applications
Springs: Vehicle suspension springs, conveyor belt springs, and industrial spring components.
Fasteners: High-strength bolts, nuts, screws, and aerospace fasteners.
Rail Transit: Train car body structures, decorative trim, and structural reinforcements.
Electronics: EMI shielding, connector springs, and battery contacts.