What kind of metal is our mufflers made of?
10-31-2012, 06:21 AM
#21
Race Director
When speaking of rusting on 300 series, the implication does not imply with the exception of those with the "L" designation, it is across the board.
An illustration, when someone erroneously suggest to use "0000" steel wool to polished Borla/Corsa tips, unless the removal of steel wool dust is absolute 100%, otherwise those tips will have rusted spot that will lead to pitting. In addition, any iron oxide in the air that landed on those "rust free" tips, if left protected, will suffered the same consequences!
An illustration, when someone erroneously suggest to use "0000" steel wool to polished Borla/Corsa tips, unless the removal of steel wool dust is absolute 100%, otherwise those tips will have rusted spot that will lead to pitting. In addition, any iron oxide in the air that landed on those "rust free" tips, if left protected, will suffered the same consequences!
10-31-2012, 10:32 AM
#23
Race Director
300 series such as 302, 303, 304, 316 are non-magnetic, but can display slight attraction to a magnet if they have been cold-worked (like stamped parts or small turned parts). Nothing like the 400 series stainless steels or 17-4's magnetic attraction though.
300 series (sometimes referred to as 18-8 stainless) is really the most appropriate for an exhaust because is most resistant to corrosion and it is probably the least expensive, unless it is 316L (low carbon for ultimate corrosion resistance like metal orthopedic implants). 400 series is stronger, but less corrosion resistant and more expensive because heat treatment is required.
300 series (sometimes referred to as 18-8 stainless) is really the most appropriate for an exhaust because is most resistant to corrosion and it is probably the least expensive, unless it is 316L (low carbon for ultimate corrosion resistance like metal orthopedic implants). 400 series is stronger, but less corrosion resistant and more expensive because heat treatment is required.