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Stainless Steel

Corrosion-resistant and tough. Prone to work hardening, requires sharp cutting edges and stable processes.

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Brief definition

Stainless Steel

Corrosion-resistant and high-strength — places higher demands on cutting parameters and tooling.
1.4301 / X5CrNi18-10
1.4404 / X2CrNiMo17-12-2
Approved
Properties
Density

7.9 g/cm³

Austenitic chromium-nickel steel

Tensile strength

520–720 MPa

1.4301, depending on condition

Thermal conductivity

Low

Approx. 15 W/(m·K), heat accumulation at the cutting edge

Corrosion resistance

Very high

Resistant to many media, suitable for food and pharmaceutical applications

Machinability

Moderate

Prone to work hardening, requires sharp cutting edges

Machining

Challenge and solution

  • Challenge

    Surface work hardening

    Insufficient feed rates or interruptions in the cut harden the surface and complicate subsequent machining.

    Our Solution

    Defined, stable feed rate

    A consistent, sufficiently high feed rate prevents hardening of the surface layer.

  • Challenge

    Tool wear due to material toughness

    The toughness of austenitic steels places higher stress on cutting edges than unalloyed steels.

    Our Solution

    Adapted cutting edge geometry

    Sharp, positive geometries and suitable coatings reduce wear and heat input.

  • Challenge

    Built-up edge at low cutting speeds

    At excessively low cutting speeds, stainless steel tends to adhere to the cutting edge.

    Our Solution

    Optimized cutting parameters

    Cutting speed and coolant supply are calibrated to prevent material buildup on the cutting edge.

  • Challenge

    Dimensional accuracy during long machining times

    Higher cutting forces and thermal input can lead to dimensional deviations during lengthy machining operations.

    Our Solution

    In-process measurement

    Critical dimensions are inspected while clamped in the fixture and adjusted as needed.
Machining

How we machine this material

We machine stainless steel using sharp, positive-rake cutting edges and stable feed rates to prevent surface work hardening. Continuous cutting instead of interrupted cuts and sufficient flood cooling protect both the tool and the workpiece surface.

  • Sharp, positive-rake cutting edges
  • Stable feed rate to prevent work hardening
  • Continuous cutting path
  • Optimized flood cooling and lubrication

Manufacturing

Suitable processes

CNC Milling

CNC milling at FORMA Maschinenbau: Milled parts up to 24 m length, 5-axis simultaneous machining, and 5-axis milling for single parts and series from the Münsterland region.
  • Up to 24,000 mm component length
  • 5-axis simultaneous
  • More About This Service

Machine allocation

Approved Stainless Steel for

DMG MORI

DMG DMC160U

X-axis travel
1,600 mm
Axes
5 axes simultaneous
Size Class
Up to 2 m
Technical Data →
CNC-Bearbeitung bei Forma Maschinenbau in Borken-Weseke
DMG MORI

DMG MORI CTX2500-1250

Turning length
1,250 mm
Axes
2 axes + Y-axis
Size Class
Up to 2 m
Technical Data →

Applications

Where Stainless Steel it is used

For us, quality is not just a word, but measurable reality. Through state-of-the-art testing equipment such as laser interferometers and 3D measurement technology, we ensure that every component precisely meets specifications.

Construction machinery

Construction Machinery

Large Components, Structural Steelwork

Frequently asked questions

FAQ Stainless Steel

Which stainless steel grades do you machine?

Our primary focus is on austenitic grades 1.4301 and 1.4404; we evaluate additional grades upon request.

Why does stainless steel require different tooling than aluminum?

Stainless steel is tougher, prone to work hardening, and has lower thermal conductivity—requiring sharp cutting edges and adapted cutting parameters.

Is stainless steel suitable for food-grade components?

Yes, the grades we process are suitable for food processing and pharmaceutical applications.

Do you provide material test certificates for stainless steel?

Yes, upon request we provide material test certificates as well as inspection reports with batch traceability.

Inquiry

Request a component made of this material

Please specify the alloy, wall thicknesses, and tolerances. We provide realistic estimates for machining time and tooling costs.
Inquire about material
+49 2862 58787-0

Your contact person

Norbert Groß-Onnebrink

Executive Management
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