440C Stainless Steel – High Hardness and Wear Resistance

Introduction to 440C Stainless Steel

440C Stainless Steel is a high-carbon martensitic stainless steel known for its exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and moderate corrosion resistance. Often used in applications requiring a durable edge and long-lasting performance, 440C is ideal for parts like bearings, cutlery, and molds. This alloy achieves one of the highest hardness levels among stainless steels, making it well-suited for high-stress applications in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and tooling.

High Hardness and Wear Resistance

440C Stainless Steel stands out for its high hardness after heat treatment, reaching up to Rockwell C 58-60. This hardness, along with its excellent wear resistance, makes it an ideal choice for applications requiring durability and a sharp edge. Its strength and stability under stress also make it a popular choice for high-performance components that experience repeated or intense contact.

Corrosion Resistance

While 440C Stainless Steel offers good corrosion resistance, it is generally best suited to mild environments. Its resistance to moisture and moderate corrosive elements is sufficient for most applications but may be outperformed by other stainless steels in highly corrosive settings. Despite this, its ability to withstand wear without losing strength makes it a preferred choice for demanding applications.

Differences Between 440 Grades

440C Stainless Steel is often compared to other grades in the 440 series, particularly 440F and 440F Se, which are free-machining versions of 440 stainless steel. 440C differs from these grades in several ways. It lacks the added sulfur or selenium found in 440F and 440F Se, which means it does not offer the same machinability but provides superior hardness and wear resistance. Additionally, 440C has better corrosion resistance than 440F and 440F Se, making it suitable for applications where both strength and moderate corrosion resistance are essential.

Applications of 440C Stainless Steel

440C Stainless Steel’s combination of high hardness, wear resistance, and moderate corrosion resistance makes it suitable for a variety of applications:

• Bearings and Bushings: Commonly used in high-wear components that require long-lasting strength and durability.
• Cutlery and Blades: Ideal for high-quality knives and cutting tools that benefit from a hard, sharp edge.
• Molds and Dies: Used in plastic and metal forming applications where strength and wear resistance are critical.
• Medical Instruments: Suitable for surgical tools and dental instruments that require high durability and edge retention.
• Aerospace Components: Used in parts that demand high strength and resistance to wear in challenging environments.

Buy 440C Stainless Steel From M. Vincent

At M. Vincent, we supply 440C Stainless Steel in bar and plate, to meet the needs of industries such as aerospace, medical, and tooling. Our team is committed to providing competitive pricing, fast delivery, and expert support to ensure you receive the highest quality materials for your project. Contact us today for more information or to request a quote.

Chemical Data, Mechanical Properties and Specifications for 440C Stainless Steel