Question:

The categorization of AISI 304 stainless steel is of the type

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Stainless Steel Families:
300 Series (AISI 304, 316) = AUSTENITIC (Non-magnetic, Cr-Ni, high corrosion resistance).
400 Series (AISI 430) = FERRITIC (Magnetic, Cr only).
  • Austenitic
  • Ferritic
  • Martensitic
  • Eutectic
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Metallurgical classification of stainless steels: AISI 304 (18% Cr, 8--10% Ni) is an Austenitic stainless steel featuring a Face-Centered Cubic (FCC) crystal lattice that remains non-magnetic and highly ductile at all temperatures.
Key Formula or Approach:
\[ \text{AISI 304 (18/8): } \text{FCC Crystal Lattice (Austenite Phase Stabilized by Nickel)} \implies \mathbf{Austenitic \text{ } Stainless \text{ } Steel} \]

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Classification of commercial stainless steel alloys by crystal microstructure:
1. Austenitic Stainless Steels (300 Series - AISI 304, 316, 302, 321) (A):
- Contain $16\% - 20\%$ Chromium and $8\% - 12\%$ Nickel (a powerful austenite-stabilizing element).
- Possess a stable Face-Centered Cubic (FCC) austenitic crystal structure at ambient temperature.
- Non-magnetic in the annealed condition, highly ductile, easily weldable, and resistant to corrosion; universally used across the dairy industry.
2. Ferritic (400 Series - AISI 430): BCC crystal structure, magnetic, nickel-free.
3. Martensitic (400 Series - AISI 410, 420): Hardened by heat treatment (knife blades).

Step 3: Final Answer:

Thus, AISI 304 is categorized as Austenitic, matching option (A).
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