Stainless Steel 310 and 310S are high-performance austenitic alloys designed for exceptional strength, oxidation resistance, and durability at elevated temperatures.
Grade 310 contains a moderate carbon level for maximum heat resistance, while 310S, its low-carbon counterpart, offers superior weldability and reduced sensitization risk during fabrication.
These stainless steels are ideal for demanding environments such as furnaces, radiant tubes, combustion chambers, and heat-treatment equipment.
They perform effectively up to 1150°C (continuous) and 1035°C (intermittent) without losing structural integrity.
Applications of 310/310S Stainless Steel
Common applications include:
- Radiant tubes and furnace components
- Heat treatment and refining systems
- Kilns and steam boilers
- Coal gasifiers, thermowells, muffles, and retorts
- Refractory anchors and saggers
- Food processing and cryogenic equipment
Their excellent resistance to oxidation and carburization makes them ideal for petrochemical and thermal processing industries.
Composition and Key Properties
Both grades are primarily composed of Chromium (24–26%) and Nickel (19–22%), with the balance being iron.
This combination provides strong oxidation resistance and mechanical stability even in harsh thermal conditions.
- Grade 310: Medium carbon – optimized for heat resistance.
- Grade 310S: Low carbon – improved weldability and toughness.
- Non-magnetic and cannot be hardened by heat treatment, but strength can be increased through cold working.
Chemcial Composition of Grade 310/310S Stainless Steel
Mechanical Properties of Grade 310/310S Stainless Steel
Physical Properties of Ferritic Stainless Steel Grade 310/310S
Fabrication and Welding
- Forging range: 975°C–1175°C, with heavy forming done above 1050°C.
- Annealing: Recommended post-forging to relieve internal stress.
- Machining: Comparable to 304 stainless steel; slow speeds and sharp tools improve efficiency.
- Welding: Compatible with SMAW, GTAW, GMAW, and SAW processes using filler metal AWS A5.9 ER310.
Post-weld pickling and passivation help restore corrosion resistance.
Heat Resistance & Performance
Grades 310/310S resist oxidation, sulphidation, and moderate carburization.
- Continuous use: Up to 1050°C
- Intermittent exposure: Up to 1035°C
- Thermal Conductivity: 10.8 W/m·K (at 100°C)
- Density: 7.89 g/cm³
While excellent in high heat, rapid temperature cycling or quenching should be avoided to prevent cracking.
Heat Treatment
Solution annealing between 1040°C–1065°C, followed by rapid cooling, provides optimum ductility and corrosion resistance.
Available Forms at Gnee Steel
Gnee Steel supplies 310 and 310S stainless steel in multiple product forms:
✅ Plate, sheet, and strip
✅ Bar, rod, and forging billet
✅ Seamless & welded pipe and tube
✅ Fittings and wire
All products comply with ASTM A240, ASME SA240, and AMS 5521 standards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1️⃣ What's the difference between 310, 310S, and 310H?
310: Standard heat-resistant grade.
310S: Low carbon version for improved weldability.
310H: Higher carbon variant for increased creep strength.
2️⃣ What is the maximum service temperature?
Up to 1100°C (2010°F) under mild cyclic conditions.
3️⃣ Where are these steels used?
In furnaces, power plants, petrochemical refineries, waste treatment, and paper production facilities.
4️⃣ How do they resist corrosion?
Excellent in oxidizing and mildly carburizing atmospheres; not recommended for severe carburization or chloride exposure.
5️⃣ Are they easy to weld?
Yes - all grades are readily weldable, with 310S offering the best performance for liquid corrosion applications.
About Gnee Steel
Gnee Steel is a trusted global supplier of stainless steel materials, including Grades 310, 310S, and 310H.
We provide comprehensive solutions - from custom processing and fabrication to technical consultation and worldwide logistics.
Our mission is to deliver high-quality, heat-resistant stainless steels that meet international standards and ensure long-term performance in critical environments.
📧 For inquiries or quotations, contact us at: ru@gneesteelgroup.com