310 is an austenitic heat resistant alloy with excellent resistance to oxidation under mildly cyclic conditions to 2100 degrees F. Rapid thermal cycling increases the rate of metal wastage somewhat by spalling of the protective oxide scale. The oxidation resistance of 310 is significantly better than that of 309.

Because of its high chromium and medium nickel contents 310 has good resistance to hot corrosion in a variety of environments. 310 has useful resistance to high temperature environments containing moderate amounts of sulfur. However, sufficiently high concentrations of sulfur may dictate the use of materials free of nickel.

310 is widely used in moderately carburizing atmospheres such as encountered in petrochemical environments. 310 does not possess sufficient resistance to carbon and nitrogen absorption for service in the highly carburizing atmospheres of industrial heat treating furnaces. 330 or 333 are more suited to this latter environment.

The chromium content of 310 provides resistance to aqueous corrosion under oxidizing conditions. 310 is susceptible to chloride ion stress corrosion cracking but it is superior in this respect to the lower alloy stainless 304 and 316. 310 has fair resistance to polythionic acid attack.

Resistance to intergranular attack of material intended for service in the 850-1000 degree F range may be improved by thermal stabilization at 1500-1650 degrees F for four hours.

Forming: 310 is formed in the same manner as the conventional austenitic stainless steels. The work hardening rate of 310 is similar to that of 304 stainless.

Heavy duty lubricants may be used in cold forming to prevent galling and reduce die wear. Lubricants should be removed prior to welding, annealing or use in high temperature service, to avoid possible hot corrosion attack.

Welding: 310 is readily welded by all methods in common usage. 310 weld fillers are available from stock.

Machining: 310 and other austenitic grades are quite ductile in the annealed condition. However, these chromium-nickel alloys work harden more rapidly and require more power to cut than do plan carbon steels. Chips tend to be stringy, cold worked material of relatively high ductility.

Applications  include Kilns, heat exchangers, radiant tubes, muffles, retorts, annealing covers, saggers, tube hangers for petroleum refining and steam boilers, Coal gasifier internal components, burners, combustion chambers, refractory anchor bolds, lead pots, fluidized bed coal combuster internals.