ASTM ASME 440C Stainless Steel Pipes & Tubes

ASTM/ASME 440C Stainless Steel Pipes & Tubes are premium high-carbon martensitic (UNS S44004) products conforming to ASTM A213/A268 standards, featuring an ultra-high carbon (0.95-1.20%) and chromium (16-18%) composition for maximum achievable hardness (up to 62 HRC) among standard stainless grades. This elite bearing-grade alloy delivers unparalleled wear resistance and load-bearing capacity, making it the material of choice for precision ball bearings, surgical tools, and high-stress mechanical components. The material's exceptional performance is achieved through precisely controlled austenitizing (1010-1065°C) and cryogenic tempering processes, developing optimal carbide distribution for both extreme surface hardness and core toughness. While primarily specified for critical components rather than pressure piping, 440C stainless steel tubes serve specialized roles in aerospace mechanisms, marine shafting, and chemical processing equipment where supreme hardness must withstand aggressive wear conditions. Requires expert heat treatment to mitigate brittleness and exhibits very limited weldability - typical applications utilize hardened and ground condition (Rc 54-60) for maximum service life in demanding mechanical environments.