7 Reasons Why 321 Stainless Steel Tube is the Best for Aeronautics Industry
Aeronautic engineers often choose the best 321 stainless steel tube for use in different parts of the aircraft. Although this steel tubing is very similar to 304, it is a better grade of 304 because of its features that we shall see in this article.
If the best 321 stainless steel tube can be used in aircrafts, then its application for several other purposes can be confidently recommended. Let us examine some of the reasons that it is the right choice of material for aircrafts.
321 SS Can withstand Extreme Temperature
Aircraft engines and in particular the pistons, as well as exhaust manifolds, are exposed to extreme temperatures as high as 1500 degrees Fahrenheit. Many alloys may not be able to remain unchanged in such conditions. 321 on the other hand is a solid alloy that can be used at such temperatures. It can also be used at low temperatures without affecting the performance of the aircraft or reducing its life span.
Resistant to Stress and Strain Rapture
Aircraft operate under high pressure which severely tests their tensile strength. This requires that the materials used in certain areas can remain strong despite all the strain they are put through. 321 is exactly that kind of alloy needed for the job. It will not crack when under pressure, nor will it succumb to extreme weather as we have already seen.
Because airlines are constantly looking for ways to make the aircrafts much safer, finding the right steel is important. The inclusion of titanium to make 321 gives it the property needed to resist strain.
It is Not Affected by Thermal Fatigue
Thermal fatigue is when a metal is affected by the constant change in temperature which causes expansion and contraction which eventually can lead to cracks or holes forming. The airline industry takes this seriously because it can be a safety issue. Different engine parts as well as the body of an aircraft have to be checked to ensure there is no sign of fatigue failure.
When dealing with 321 stainless steel, engineers can be certain that they will not find signs of fatigue because this alloy can withstand different temperatures and remain free from cracks. This also makes the material durable since there is hardly any need to replace parts made from stainless steel.
Corrosion Resistant
This is a common quality of stainless steel, but not all of them have the ability to resist corrosion after extensive exposure to precipitation and oxidation. What sets 321 apart from 304 is that it has added titanium which gives it extra resistance to corrosion.
Aircraft are exposed to oxidation and precipitation both on the ground and in the air, it is greatly important that the material used can withstand these conditions and avoid disintegration. It is not just for the smooth performance of the aircraft, but also because its safety depends on such resistance. 321 is ideal for use in key areas of an aircraft that are exposed to the elements.
Lightweight
Some of the attributes of stainless steel would make you imagine that it is a heavy material but the truth about them is that they are a mixture of light metals and 321 tubes are no exception. An airplane needs to minimize the weight that it carries so engineers are always on the lookout for light materials. 321 fits that description along with its other favorable qualities that make it a good choice to use in aircraft engines and other parts of the aircraft.
Aesthetics
Engineers also like to take pride in designing not just functional machines, but also ones that look good. 321 is an aesthetically pleasing material. It is shiny and if kept clean will add to the visual appeal of the aircraft. Also since it is stainless, it is much easier to keep it looking clean and appealing.
It can also be used for the interior of the plane for parts that need to be strong but also appealing. The seatbelt buckles are one such part.It can also be used for handles in the bathroom for handicapped people.
It is Easy to Work With
The final property of 321 stainless tube that makes it the best for use in aircrafts is that it can be molded and fabricated with ease to suit different applications. Welding is easy as long as you know how to work with it and it does not get damaged easily.
Conclusion
321 stainless is a metal with several applications in engineering. Its high strength and resistance to corrosion and extreme temperature are some of its most appealing qualities. In most cases, it is used in applications that involve high temperature since it will withstand it for much longer than other steel options. It however is not a good choice for welding consumable since it doesn’t transfer heat well. Other than that, it makes a great alternative for grades like 304 when it comes to aircraft engineering.