Materials used in aerospace applications must embody the two features as below: 1) structural integrity (i.e., strong enough to withstand the service environment) and 2) inertness (i.e., corrosion resistance). Good corrosion resistance, high temperature oxidation resistance plus reliable mechanical properties maintained over a wide temperature range make stainless steel the commonly used material in aerospace applications.
Austenitic stainless steels are widely applicable to aircraft, such as the engine fuel pipes, hydraulic conduits and other pipelines, radiators, various sheet metal, welded components, and even elastic components (made through cold deformation), for its high chromium content, excellent oxidation and corrosion resistance, as well as its stable austenitic structure under room temperature. Plus, it is non-magnetic, and has excellent plasticity and processing properties.
However, austenitic stainless steel is sensitive to intergranular corrosion, hence attention should be given during use. In the past, stabilizing elements such as chin and aluminum were commonly added to eliminate the intergranular corrosion, but in recent years ultra-low carbon steel was widely used to achieve the same purpose.
For corrosion-resistant applications, austenitic stainless steel grade 1.4301 (AISI 304) and its derivatives are sufficient under mild environments less than 200 ppm, such as cabin components, internal fuel tanks, etc.; while grade 1.4401 and its derivatives, are applicable to environments where chloride is filled in the air.
For applications where oxidation resistance is a primary concern, 1.4818 (ASTM S30415), 1.4835 (ASTM S30815), 1.4833 (AISI 309), and 1.4845 (AISI 310) will be used. These grades are capable of withstanding temperatures at 1150 degrees Celsius.
Typical applications for austenitic stainless steels in aerospace are listed in the table as below:
| Application | Stainless Steel |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank | 1.4301(AISI 304) |
| 1.4307(AISI 304L) | |
| Exhaust component, high temperature engine and structural component | 1.4541(AISI 321) |
| 1.4401(AISI 316) | |
| 1.4404(AISI 316L) | |
| 1.4818(AISI 415) | |
| 1.4835(AISI 815) | |
| 1.4833(AISI 309) | |
| 1.4845(AISI 310) | |
| Other structural components | 1.4301(AISI 304) |
| 1.4307(AISI 304L) |
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