Aluminum and ductile iron have been the standard in the manifold world for years, but stainless steel is quickly becoming more common in the hydraulic manifold industry. Its strength, durability, and excellent corrosion resistance make it the optimal choice for certain applications such as subsea, mining, and corrosive environments. Other applications include oil and gas, washdown, semiconductor, and the food industry.
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Prime Motion & Control can produce most of its standard products in stainless steel.
This includes cavity body applications, and we are continuously expanding our stainless machining capabilities.
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In many cases, Prime Motion & Control can use readily available 304 & 316 stainless steel in place of ductile iron.
The most basic difference between the grades of steel is the presence of molybdenum in stainless 316. Molybdenum is a chemical element used for the strengthening and hardening of steel. Its main function in stainless 316 is to help fight off corrosion from chlorides. Stainless 316 contains more nickel than stainless 304, while 304 contains more chromium than 316. Stainless 304 usually consists of 18% chromium and 8% nickel. Stainless 316 is made up of 16% chromium, 10% nickel and 2% molybdenum.
The two steel grades are comparable in appearance, chemical makeup and characteristics. Both steels are durable and provide excellent resistance to corrosion and rust. 304 stainless steel is the most versatile and widely used austenitic stainless steel in the world, due to its corrosion resistance. 304 stainless is also cheaper in cost compared to 316, another reason for its popularity and widespread use.
Stainless 316 is more expensive because it provides a higher corrosion resistance, especially against chlorides and chlorinated solutions. This makes stainless 316 more desirable in applications where salt exposure is an issue. If you have an application with powerful corrosives or chlorides, the extra cost of stainless 316 is highly recommended. In such applications, 316 stainless will last longer than 304, providing you with extra years of life and usage. If your application uses milder acids or does not contain salt exposure, stainless 304 is perfect.
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Our stainless steel products are passivated to maximize the natural corrosion resistance of the material.
This process removes surface contamination that can potentially form rust or initiate corrosion.
As stainless steel takes on a larger role in the hydraulic manifold industry, Prime Motion & Control will continue to invest in equipment, tooling, and training for the expansion of our stainless steel offerings.