Stainless Steel 17-4 PH

17-4 PH (AISI 630) is a chromium-copper precipitation hardening stainless steel used for applications requiring high strength and a moderate level of corrosion resistance. It bridges the gap between the corrosion resistance of 304 and the strength of martensitic 410 stainless. Its defining characteristic is its ability to be heat-treated to various strength levels (Conditions) through a simple low-temperature aging process, which minimizes distortion. At Jucheng Precision, we specialize in machining 17-4 PH for the Aerospace and Energy sectors, delivering parts in the annealed state or fully hardened (H900) depending on your mechanical requirements.

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17-4 PH Stainless

17-4 PH Machining Capabilities

Capability Technical Description Jucheng Advantage
Hard Machining Machining 17-4 PH after heat treatment (Condition H900, ~44 HRC). Requires rigid machines and specialized carbide. We eliminate post-heat treat distortion issues by machining the part directly in its hardened state for maximum accuracy.
Heat Treatment Management Processing parts from Condition A (Annealed) to various aged conditions (H900, H1025, H1150) to tune strength/ductility. We provide turnkey manufacturing, handling the aging process and certifying the final hardness and tensile strength.
Precision Grinding Post-machining cylindrical or surface grinding to achieve bearing-grade tolerances (+/- 0.002mm). Essential for aerospace actuator shafts and pump components where seal fits are critical.
Complex 5-Axis Milling Milling structural brackets and fittings from solid 17-4 blocks. Our powerful spindles easily handle the high cutting forces required for this tough aerospace alloy.

Fabrication Guidelines for 17-4 PH

Machinability:
In the annealed state (Condition A), 17-4 PH machines similarly to Stainless 304 but is slightly harder. Tip: Tool life is shorter than 304; use premium coated carbide tools.

Dimensional Change:
One of 17-4’s best features is its low distortion during heat treatment. Unlike carbon steels, it shrinks very predictably (approx. 0.0005 in/in). Tip: We can often machine to final size before heat treat for H1150 condition.

Magnetic Property:
Unlike 304/316, 17-4 PH is magnetic. Tip: This allows us to use magnetic workholding for surface grinding, reducing tooling costs.

Primary Applications

Aerospace & Defense
Actuators, landing gear components, and structural fasteners requiring high strength up to 315°C (600°F).

Oil & Gas
Valve stems, pump shafts, and downhole tool components that need high hardness to resist wear and slurry erosion.

Power Generation
Turbine blades and nuclear reactor components due to excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical properties.

Medical Instruments
Surgical tools requiring a sharp cutting edge (hardness) combined with rust resistance (sterilization).

Properties

Density 7.75 g/cm³
Tensile Strength 1310 MPa
Yield Strength 1170 MPa
Hardness 44 HRC (420 HB)
Elongation at Break 10%
Thermal Conductivity 17.9 W/m-K
Electrical Conductivity 2% IACS
Machinability Rating 40% (Cond A)
Weldability Good
Corrosion Resistance Good
Magnetic Yes
Max Part Size 2000 x 800 x 600 mm