3cr12 stainless steel data sheet Supplier, Manufacturer & Exporter
Amardeep Steel Centre is one of the leading 3CR12 Stainless Steel Suppliers, offering high-quality material to global industries at a competitive price. Known for its durability and cost-effectiveness, 3CR12 material is a chromium-based stainless steel developed by modifying the properties of grade 409 steel. It provides reliable protection against mild corrosion and wet abrasion, making it a preferred choice for structural and industrial use. Originally introduced by Columbus Stainless under the trademark “3CR12,” this alloy is recognized worldwide by its equivalent designations UNS S40977, UNS S41003, and 1.4003 stainless steel (also referred to as Stainless 1.4003).
According to the 3CR12 Stainless Steel Data Sheet, this grade complies with multiple global standards including ASTM A240/A240M, ASME SA240, and EN 10088-2. In addition, 1.4003 stainless steel is listed in EN 10028-7, which categorizes it for pressure-related applications. With its balance of mechanical strength, weldability, and resistance properties, 3CR12 has become a cost-effective alternative to higher alloyed grades.
As a trusted manufacturer, supplier, and exporter, Amardeep Steel Centre provides 3CR12 stainless steel sheets, plates, and other forms tailored to project needs.
Chemical Composition of 3CR12 Stainless Steel
The chemical composition of 3CR12 Stainless Steel defines its corrosion resistance, weldability, and mechanical strength. With controlled levels of chromium, carbon, and trace elements, it delivers reliable performance across industrial applications.
| Grade | C | Mn | Si | P | S | Cr | Mo | Ni | N | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4003 | min. | - | - | - | - | - | 10.50 | - | 0.30 | - |
| S40977 | max. | 0.030 | 1.50 | 1.00 | 0.040 | 0.015 | 12.50 | - | 1.00 | 0.030 |
| S41003 | min. max. |
- 0.03 |
- 1.50 |
- 1.00 |
- 0.040 |
- 0.030 |
10.5 12.5 |
- - |
- 1.50 |
- 0.030 |
Mechanical Properties of 3CR12 Stainless Steel
The mechanical properties of 3CR12 Stainless Steel highlight its balance of strength, toughness, and durability. With good tensile and yield values, along with controlled hardness, it is well-suited for demanding structural and industrial uses.
| Grade | Tensile Strength (MPa) min | Yield Strength 0.2% Proof Stress (MPa) min | Elongation (% in 50mm) min | Hardness | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rockwell (HR) max | Brinell (HB) max | ||||
| 1.4003 | 450 650 |
280 (long.) 320 (trans.) |
20 | - | - |
| S40977 | 455 | 280 | 18 | HR B88 | 180 |
| S41003 | 455 | 275 | 18 | HR C20 | 223 |
Physical Properties of 3CR12 Stainless Steel
The physical properties of 3CR12 Stainless Steel define its behaviour under heat, stress, and conductivity. These values help engineers assess suitability for high-temperature, structural, and electrical applications.
| Grade | Density (kg/m3) | Elastic Modulus (GPa) | Mean Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (µm/m/°C) | Thermal Conductivity (W/m.K) | Specific
Heat 0-100°C (J/kg.K) |
Electrical Resistivity (nÙ.m) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0-100°C | 0-300°C | 0-700°C | at 100°C | at 500°C | ||||||
| 3CR12 | 7740 | 200 | 10.8 | 11.3 | 12.5 | 30.5 | 31.5 | 480 | 570 | |
Equivalent Grades of 3cr12 Steel
Since 3CR12 Stainless Steel is recognized under multiple international standards, it is often referenced by different designations depending on region and industry. Knowing these equivalents helps buyers, engineers, and procurement teams cross-verify specifications for seamless sourcing and project compatibility.
| Standard / Code | Designation | Description / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UNS (USA) | S40977 / S41003 | American UNS designations used in ASTM & ASME specs; ensure global traceability in engineering documents. |
| EN (Europe) | 1.4003 (X2CrNi12) | European standard under EN 10088 & EN 10028; widely used in sheet, plate, and structural applications. |
| ASTM / ASME (USA) | ASTM A240 / A240M, ASME SA240 | Covers chromium and Cr-Ni stainless steels for pressure vessels & general use; validates heavy-duty industrial applications. |
| DIN / Werkstoff (Germany) | W.Nr. 1.4003 | German standard Werkstoffnummer designation; common in mill test certificates and European supply chains. |
| ISO & Other Standards | Various references | Recognized under ISO stainless steel standards & local codes; ensures compatibility across international projects. |
Manufacturing Process of 3cr12 Steel
The production of 3CR12 stainless steel follows a carefully controlled process that enhances its strength, weldability, and resistance to corrosion. Each stage is monitored to meet international quality standards and deliver material that performs consistently in demanding applications.
- Melting & Refining : Selected raw materials, including iron, chromium, and alloying elements, are melted in an electric arc or induction furnace. Refining ensures the correct balance of carbon, chromium and stabilizers like titanium. This step is critical to achieving the targeted chemical composition.
- Casting : The molten steel is solidified into slabs, blooms, or billets using continuous casting methods. This creates a uniform internal structure, minimizes defects, and prepares the steel for further rolling operations. Proper casting also helps reduce segregation of alloying elements.
- Hot Rolling : Cast slabs are reheated and rolled at high temperatures to form plates, coils, or sheets. Hot rolling improves grain structure, enhances mechanical properties, and achieves the required thickness and width. It is the foundation for shaping the steel into usable forms.
- Cold Rolling (Optional) : For applications requiring tighter tolerances or a smoother finish, the hot-rolled material undergoes cold rolling and annealing. This process enhances dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and mechanical strength, making the material suitable for specialized uses.
- Heat Treatment : Annealing and controlled cooling are applied to relieve stresses and improve ductility. This step ensures that the material maintains toughness while preventing brittleness, making it easier to fabricate, bend, and weld for industrial projects.
- Surface Finishing : Processes such as pickling, oiling, or polishing are used to clean the surface and improve corrosion resistance. Finishing also enhances appearance and ensures the steel is ready for applications where surface quality is important.
- Inspection & Testing : Final products undergo dimensional checks, mechanical property testing, and chemical analysis to ensure compliance with ASTM, EN and ASME standards. Test Certificates are provided for complete traceability and customer assurance.
Applications of 3cr12 Steel
3CR12 Stainless Steel is widely chosen in industries where durability, abrasion resistance, and cost-effectiveness are more important than decorative finish. Its versatility allows it to replace mild steel in many structural and industrial applications, offering longer service life with reduced maintenance.
- Construction & Infrastructure : Used in bridges, architectural cladding, roofing, and structural supports, it withstands outdoor exposure better than carbon steel while reducing lifecycle costs.
- Mining & Quarrying Equipment : Ideal for chutes, hoppers, and conveyors, where abrasion and wet conditions demand a stronger, more corrosion-resistant alternative to mild steel.
- Transportation & Railways : Applied in rail coaches, truck bodies, and trailers, 3CR12 offers weight savings, corrosion protection, and long-term durability in harsh operating conditions.
- Sugar & Food Processing Industry : Commonly used in sugar mills, storage tanks, and processing equipment, thanks to its ability to resist wet abrasion and mild corrosion.
- Oil, Gas & Energy Sector : Suitable for tanks, pipelines, and structural components, where moderate corrosion resistance and high strength are required at competitive costs.
- Agricultural & Industrial Machinery : Found in farm equipment, silos, and material handling systems, it provides a balance of toughness and ease of fabrication.
FAQ’s about 3CR12 Stainless Steel
What is 3CR12 stainless steel?
It’s an affordable, corrosion-resistant ferritic stainless steel developed from grade 409, also known as 1.4003 or UNS S40977/S41003.
How does it perform against corrosion?
Offers much better resistance than mild steel—about 250 times more—and resists wet abrasion and mild corrosive environments. Not decorative; light surface rust may appear in some atmospheres.
Can it be welded?
Yes, weldable using TIG, MIG, and other conventional methods. Preferred with low heat input. Post-weld pickling or passivation is recommended for optimal finish.
What are its heat resistance limits?
Can withstand continuous exposure up to ~620 °C or intermittent up to ~730 °C in air. Under stress, the real limit drops to around 450 °C continuous or 600 °C intermittent.
Is it machinable?
Yes, machinability is similar to grade 430 (~60% of mild steel). Exhibits lower work hardening than austenitic grades.
What are the physical characteristics?
Density ~7.74 g/cm³, modulus ~200 GPa, with moderate thermal conductivity and thermal expansion; ideal for structural and medium-temperature applications.
