ASTM ASME 420 Stainless Steel Pipes & Tubes

ASTM/ASME 420 Stainless Steel Pipes & Tubes are high-carbon martensitic (UNS S42000) products conforming to ASTM A213/A268 standards, featuring elevated chromium (12-14%) and controlled carbon (0.15-0.40%) content for exceptional hardness (up to 50 HRC when heat-treated) and wear resistance. This hardenable alloy is particularly suitable for cutlery, surgical instruments, and mechanical components requiring edge retention and moderate corrosion resistance, offering better aqueous corrosion performance than standard 410 grade while maintaining superior mechanical properties. The material achieves optimal performance through quenching and tempering processes, with corrosion resistance improving at higher tempering temperatures. While primarily used for precision components rather than pressure applications, 420 stainless steel tubes find specialized use in food processing equipment, chemical handling systems, and industrial machinery where combined hardness, strength, and stain resistance are required, though with limited weldability compared to lower-carbon martensitic grades.