Best practices for machining stainless steel
| Grade | Machinability | Hardness | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 303 | Good | Brinell 160 | Fittings, screws, shafts |
| 304 | Fair | Brinell 170 | Food equipment, chemical |
| 316 | Fair | Brinell 170 | Marine, medical, chemical |
| 416 | Very Good | Brinell 180 | Free-machining, shafts |
Stainless steel work-hardens rapidly. Use sharp tools, rigid setups, and consistent feeds to avoid work hardening. Use high-pressure coolant for chip evacuation.