Heat Treatment Guides
Comprehensive heat treatment parameters for optimal metallurgical properties across all material grades.
Austenitic Stainless Steel
Solution Annealing
Dissolve carbides, restore corrosion resistance, relieve stress
Temperature
1010-1120°C
Holding Time
Min. 3 min per mm thickness
Cooling
Water quench or rapid air cool
Hardness
< 200 HB
Important Notes
Critical to cool rapidly through 450-850°C range to prevent carbide precipitation
Stabilization Annealing
Precipitate Ti/Nb carbides in stabilized grades (321, 347)
Temperature
850-900°C
Holding Time
2-4 hours
Cooling
Air cool
Hardness
< 220 HB
Important Notes
Only for stabilized grades. Improves resistance to intergranular corrosion
Stress Relief
Reduce residual stress without affecting mechanical properties
Temperature
400-500°C
Holding Time
1-2 hours
Cooling
Air cool
Hardness
Unchanged
Important Notes
Lower temperatures may not fully relieve stress; higher temps risk sensitization
Quick Material Selection
Heat Treatment Best Practices
- Always verify temperature using calibrated thermocouples at multiple points
- Ensure uniform heating rate to prevent thermal shock and distortion
- Controlled atmosphere prevents oxidation and decarburization
- Document all heat treatment parameters for traceability