magnetic grade stainless

[Davi]

anyone got a definitive "you want x" grade of stainless that shows reasonable magnetic properties (i.e. would hold say a fridge magnet) and won't go rusty in a relatively damp environment?!

I'm getting conflicting info.

[jp1982]

The permeability of any given steel is therefore dependent on the distribution of ferrite, martensite and austenite in the structure. The ferritic and martensitic stainless grades ("400" series) are generally free from austenite and have "high" permeabilities, and so will attract a magnet. They are classed ferromagnetic. These steels can be magnetised in an electric field and so can be used for electric solenoid cores, where good corrosion resistance is required. An example of this type of steel is the "soft" ferritic 430 (1.4016).
Duplex stainless steels with a balance of austenite & ferrite phases (around 50 / 50) are also ferromagnetic but would classed as "harder" due to their higher mechanical strength.
The hardenable martensitic stainless steels can be classed as "hard" magnetic materials which, although ferromagnetic, will not magnetise and demagnetise as easily as the ferritic or duplex grades and so could be regarded as having magnetic properties closer to those of materials used for permanent magnets.

Got this from BSSA. Hope it helps

[littlegreenfairy]

doogz said:

Martensitic = magnetic

Austenitic = not magnetic.

As for grades of steel, tbh i'm not entirely sure, but with that info, have a look on roymech.co.uk and see what you can see.

3.5NCMV was always my favourite for some obscure reason.

[motco]

I worked for Hoover many years ago and was advised by a washing machine designer to always take a magnet to the shop when viewing new machines. If the magnet stuck to the drum do not buy it 'cos it's "ferritic" and will corrode. Austenitic, I was told, is non-magnetic, more expensive, but won't rust.

[Big Al.]

IIRC in old money EN57 was magnetic.

[blueST]

Many years ago I used to purchase 430 grade stainless bright annealed sheet which I think was magnetic. If you Google it there are loads of data sheets.

ETA: Just spotted jp1982 mentioned it first

Edited by blueST on Thursday 8th April 22:10

[Davi]

Cheers Chaps just been informed a friend has some 430 spare and confirmed it's magnetic, you lot beat him to it as usual though

[Odie]

Instead of using stainless why not just use a standard magnet and coat it in plastic?

[Davi]

appearances, pure and simple!