Peeled Round Bars / Stainless Steel
AISI 440C
High Carbon Martensitic Stainless Steel
Material Overview
AISI 440C - High Carbon Martensitic Stainless Steel
Material Type
Type: Martensitic, heat-treatable stainless steel
Key Benefit: Highest hardness among all stainless steels
Mechanical Properties
| Hardness (Heat Treated): | 55-60 HRC |
| Wear Resistance: | Very High |
| Corrosion Resistance: | Moderate |
Corrosion & Wear Resistance
- Wear Resistance: Exceptional - suitable for cutting and bearing applications
- Corrosion Resistance: Moderate - better than carbon steel, less than 304/316
- Edge Retention: Excellent for cutting tools
Applications
- High-precision ball bearings and roller bearings
- Knife blades and cutting tools
- Valve components and seats
- Dies and punches
- Surgical instruments
- Measuring instruments and gauges
- Nozzles and wear plates
Advantages
- Maximum Hardness: Highest among stainless steels
- Wear Resistance: Exceptional abrasion resistance
- Edge Retention: Maintains sharp edges
- Corrosion + Hardness: Unique combination of properties
Heat Treatment
- Hardening: Austenitize at 1010-1065°C, quench in oil or air
- Tempering: 150-370°C for desired hardness
- Annealing: 870-900°C for softening
- Stress Relief: Recommended after machining
Processing Characteristics
- Machinability: Fair - best machined in annealed condition
- Grinding: Excellent finish achievable
- Welding: Not recommended - prone to cracking
- Polishing: Takes excellent mirror finish