forming 321 stainless

[spilo]

I can't get a sheet of 321 big enough to form the part I need. My supplier wants to weld 2 sheets together and than form the part. Any one have any info about using this process?

 

[btrueblood]

Given that it's a stabilized grade, I wouldn't worry.

 

[CoryPad]

You can expect lower formability from the material in and near the weld if it is in the as-welded condition. Thermomechanical processing, even homogenization/recrystallization, would be an improvement.

Regards,

Cory

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[0707]

After form the part it will be good to heat the forming zone at a rate of 700ºC/h than make a step of 1050ºC during a time correspondent to the thickness of your plate (if it a thin plate of 3 to 5mm a step of 5 to 8 Minutes is ok than let the plate rapidly cool in the air.

luis marques