What grade of Stainless Steel for mandrels?

[Marjo]

I came across this site which has stainless steel rod and tubing at good prices. Can be cut to size or in precut lengths of 12" 18" etc.

http://www.speedymetals.com/c-8266-round.aspx

My question is: What grade do you use for lampworking? They have:

17-4 (type 630)
303
303 Bearing Shaft
304
316
416
420
440

Thanks!

[RSimmons]

I use 316.

Robert

[bclogan]

I've ordered from speedyMetals once before. I was pleased with the transaction.

[Dale M.]

304 and 316, are the two most popular alloys, they have almost the same properties and there is no real difference in strength of stiffness..... Any stainless with a "L" suffix is "low carbon" (food grade)...

Dale

[Marjo]

304 and 316, are the two most popular alloys, they have almost the same properties and there is no real difference in strength of stiffness..... Any stainless with a "L" suffix is "low carbon" (food grade)...

Dale

So does that mean that 304 is also ok for lampworking?

[Dale M.]

So does that mean that 304 is also ok for lampworking?

Yes.....

The molecular makeup (grade) of the stainless has to do with welding qualities and its durability (application), all of which means nothing when you are using stainless as mandrels while working with fire and glass... But it is best material for mandrels because if its ability to maintain shape when in high heat situations..

http://www.wisconsinmetaltech.com/guide/type-304.html

http://www.wisconsinmetaltech.com/guide/type-316.html

Note that 316 has a small percentage of molybdenum to increase corrosion resistance. That is main difference in grades 304 and 316.

Dale