Stainless Steel Grade AISI 420 | EN 1.4034 | DIN X46Cr13

AISI 420 | EN 1.4034 | DIN X46Cr13 - is a martensitic stainless steel which has good polishing and mechanical properties but poor weldability. Due to its high carbon content, this steel is very hard. It has good corrosion resistance in non-chloride environments and weak organic acids. Good resistance to water and steam. Not resistant to intergranular corrosion under as-welded or welded conditions. Due to the precipitation of chromium carbides and the formation of chromium-depleted areas adjacent to these precipitations, this stainless steel should not be used in soft annealed conditions or at elevated temperatures if corrosion is a problem. Optimum corrosion resistance is therefore achieved in the hardened condition with a polished surface.

Physical properties

Technological properties

Stainless steel grade AISI 420 | EN 1.4034 has the following technological properties:

⓵ Hot processing

It is recommended to gradually heat to a temperature of about 800 °C before heating more rapidly to a temperature of 1150 °C to 1180 °C. Then forging takes place between 1180 °C - 950 °C and then slowly cooling in a furnace, dry ash or similar material to facilitate slow cooling.

⓶ Mechanical processing

The machinability of this grade of stainless steel is directly related to its hardness. The machining process of 40X13 resembles the machining processes of carbon steels of the same hardness. Although it is clear that the machining parameters will vary depending on the structure of the steel.

⓷ Welding

EN 1.4034 is not suitable for welding due to its high carbon content. But if welding cannot be avoided, preheat to 350 - 400 °C and the post-heat treatment temperature should be around 650 °C.

Stainless steel AISI 420 | EN 1.4034 | DIN X46Cr13 is considered one of the cheapest materials, which is suitable for making blades of only the cheapest knives.