Are stainless steel fasteners non-magnetic?
As related to stainless fasteners, 300 series austenitic stainless is non-magnetic in its raw material condition. Cold working can sometimes induce traces of magnetism in 300 series, depending on the severity of cold working and chemical composition of the stainless. This is especially true in flat washers and lock washers. A rise in magnetism is related to an increase in tensile strength and work hardening caused by the heat and friction of cold forming and does not reduce corrosion resistance or cause any molecular change in austentic raw material. A higher portion of nickel can increase stability in stainless, thus decreasing work hardening and any possibilities of magnetism. 400 series martensitic stainless contains on nickel and is magnetic. This article answers the question very well.
As related to stainless fasteners, 300 series austenitic stainless is non-magnetic in its raw material condition. Cold working can sometimes induce traces of magnetism in 300 series, depending on the severity of cold working and chemical composition of the stainless. This is especially true in flat washers and lock washers. A rise in magnetism is related to an increase in tensile strength and work hardening caused by the heat and friction of cold forming and does not reduce corrosion resistance or cause any molecular change in austenitic raw material. A higher portion of nickel can increase stability in stainless, thus decreasing work hardening and any possibilities of magnetism. 400 series martensitic stainless contains on nickel and is magnetic. This article answers the question very well.
