Nitronic 60
Austenitic stainless steel with outstanding wear resistance, galling resistance and good corrosion resistance – an economical alternative to carbide and nickel base
Austenitic nitrogen alloyed stainless steel (Fe–Cr–Ni–Mn–Si–N) developed to resist galling (adhesive wear), abrasion and deformation without compromising corrosion resistance. A very economical alternative to cobalt and nickel-based materials in demanding mechanical and corrosive environments.
Recommended welding consumables: Equivalent grade or compatible stainless steel consumables.
General material description:
Type: Austenitic nitrogen-alloyed stainless steel (Fe–Cr–Ni–Mn–Si–N)
Structure: Stable FCC structure even at high temperatures
Developed for: Galling resistance, wear resistance and deformation resistance without loss of corrosion protection
Alternative names: Nitronic® 60, UNS S21800, XM-19, ASTM A276, A240, A479, Werkstoffnr 1.4539 (similar properties)
Key benefits:
Exceptional resistance to galling and metal-to-metal contact – superior to 316/304
High wear resistance even in static (non-slip) applications
Corrosion resistance comparable or better than 304/316 in many environments
Cost-effective alternative to cobalt and nickel-based alloys
High temperature resistance up to approximately 980°C
Disadvantages / Limitations:
Lower corrosion resistance than duplex or super austenitic steels
More difficult to machine than 304/316 - requires stable tools
Not hardenable by heat treatment - only cold working increases strength
Applications by industry and value:
Chemical process industry: Valve seats, impellers, shafts - galling and corrosion resistance
Food / Pharma: Pipe fittings, bolts - wear without contamination
Offshore / Marine: Fasteners, slideways, hubs - rust and galling resistance
Paper industry: Press rolls, guides – abrasion resistance and chemical resistance
General mechanical engineering: Washers, bushings, guide pins – alternative to hardfacing
General corrosion description:
Good resistance to general corrosion and pitting in chloride solutions
Less resistant to crevice corrosion than duplex or superaustenitic steels
Resists water, steam, salt water and organic acids
Corrosion environments where the material works well:
Mild to moderate chloride environments
Organic acids, acetic acid, phosphoric acid
Water, steam, mild alkaline solutions
Marine environment (under moderate stress)
Corrosion environments where the material should be avoided:
Highly concentrated hydrochloric acid, hydrofluoric acid
Stagnating water with high chloride content
High stress corrosion cracking conditions + chloride
Technical material properties (annealed condition):
Property (Typical value)
Yield strength (0.2%): ~380–415 MPa
Tensile strength: ~690–760 MPa
Elongation at break: ~35–45%
Density: ~7.9 g/cm³
Elastic modulus: ~190 GPa
Thermal conductivity: ~13 W/m·K
Operating temperature: Up to 980°C
Weldability: Very good – low risk of cracking
Machinability: Moderate – better than duplex, worse than 304
Options:
Comparison: Much better galling resistance than 316L, cheaper than Alloy 625 i certain applications
Product forms: Bar, sheet, tube, wire, forgings, fasteners
Standards: ASTM A240, A276, A479; UNS S21800
Cost position: Medium – lower than nickel base, higher than standard 300 series
