1. Introduction
CF3 stainless steel, a member of the austenitic cast stainless steel family, is the low-carbon cast equivalent of the popular wrought grade 304L (UNS S30403).
It is defined under ASTM A351 and widely used in industries where corrosion resistance, weldability, and castability are paramount.
The “C” in CF3 stands for “Corrosion-resistant”, “F” denotes the steel grade (304L equivalent), and the number “3” identifies its low carbon content (≤ 0.03%).
Historically, CF3 emerged as part of the response to corrosion issues in chloride-rich and welding-intensive applications.
The introduction of low-carbon grades in the mid-20th century was a milestone that enabled the development of high-integrity welded structures without the need for post-weld heat treatment.
Due to its balanced combination of cost-effectiveness, performance, and resistance to sensitization,
CF3 continues to be strategically important in cast stainless steel applications across chemical, petrochemical, water treatment, and food-processing sectors.
2. Chemical Composition & Metallurgy
Nominal Chemical Composition
The typical weight percentage (wt.%) of the alloying elements in CF3 stainless steel, as defined by ASTM A351, is:
| Element | Typical Range (wt.%) | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Chromium (Cr) | 18.0 – 21.0% | Promotes corrosion resistance through passive film formation |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8.0 – 11.0% | Stabilizes austenite, improves ductility and toughness |
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.03% | Reduces sensitization; improves weldability |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 1.5% | Enhances hot workability; deoxidizer |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 2.0% | Promotes fluidity in casting; deoxidizer |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.04% | Residual; must be minimized to reduce brittleness |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.04% | Residual; excessive S can reduce toughness |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance | Matrix element |
The low carbon content (≤ 0.03%) significantly mitigates the risk of chromium carbide precipitation at grain boundaries during welding,
making CF3 especially resistant to intergranular corrosion without requiring post-weld heat treatment.
Microstructure: Austenitic Matrix & Carbide Control
CF3 stainless steel has a fully austenitic microstructure with a face-centered cubic (FCC) lattice, which contributes to:
- Excellent toughness at both ambient and cryogenic temperatures.
- Non-magnetic behavior in the annealed state.
- Resistance to stress corrosion cracking (SCC) in many chloride-containing environments.
Due to its low carbon content, CF3 contains minimal chromium carbides, particularly at grain boundaries.
This improves resistance to sensitization, a condition in which chromium-depleted zones form and become vulnerable to corrosive attack.
Some residual delta ferrite (typically < 10%) may be present after solidification, particularly in sand-cast components.
which helps prevent hot cracking during solidification, but has minimal impact on corrosion resistance or toughness when kept at controlled levels.
3. ASTM A351 CF3 and Global Equivalents
| Standard | Designation | Region | Equivalent Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASTM A351 | Grade CF3 | USA | Low-carbon cast 304L |
| ASME SA-351 | Grade CF3 | USA (boiler code) | Pressure vessel compliant |
| EN 10283 | GX2CrNi19-11 | European Union | Cast version of 1.4306 (304L) |
| ISO 11972 | G-X2CrNi19-11 | International | Global harmonized equivalent |
| JIS G5121 | SCS13A | Japan | 304L cast grade |
4. Mechanical Properties
| Mechanical Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 485 MPa |
| Yield Strength (0.2% offset) | ≥ 205 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥ 30% |
| Hardness | 140–190 HB |
| Impact Toughness (Room Temp) | > 100 J (Charpy V-Notch) |
| Fatigue Endurance Limit | 240–270 MPa (in air, polished) |
| Creep Resistance | Moderate up to 870°C |
At elevated temperatures, tensile and yield strengths decrease gradually, but the alloy retains sufficient structural integrity up to 400–500 °C, making it viable for moderate thermal service.
5. Thermal & Physical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | ~7.9 g/cm³ |
| Thermal Conductivity | ~16 W/m·K (at 100°C) |
| Coefficient of Expansion | 17.3 µm/m·°C (20–400°C) |
| Electrical Resistivity | 0.72 µΩ·m |
| Magnetic Response | Non-magnetic (annealed) |
| Oxidation Resistance | Good up to ~800°C |
6. Casting Characteristics of CF3 Stainless Steel
CF3 stainless steel—cast equivalent of 316—brings molybdenum‑enhanced corrosion resistance into complex geometries.
To harness its full potential, foundries must account for its unique casting behavior, from melt handling to solidification control.
Fluidity & Pouring Temperature
CF3 melts between 1450 °C and 1550 °C, slightly higher than CF8 due to its Mo content.
At a pouring superheat of 1500–1560 °C, CF3 achieves a fluidity of 220–280 mm (ISO 243), enabling fill of thin‑walled sections down to 4 mm.
However, excessive superheat can increase gas pickup and oxidation, so operators typically limit superheat to 50 °C above liquidus.
Solidification Range & Shrinkage
With a freezing range of approximately 60–90 °C, CF3 solidifies over a broader temperature interval than simple austenitic alloys.
Consequently, it exhibits linear shrinkage of 1.9–2.3 %, necessitating careful shrink‑compensation in pattern design.
To prevent centerline porosity, engineers employ directional solidification: placing insulated risers above hot spots and using chills to accelerate freezing in thick sections.
Feeding & Riser Design
Given its moderate shrinkage, CF3 castings benefit from risers sized to feed 30–40 % of the casting mass they support.
Finite‑element thermal simulation often guides riser placement, ensuring uninterrupted metal flow into contracting zones.
In addition, exothermic sleeves on critical risers prolong feeding life without increasing overall mold volume.
Degassing, Deoxidation & Inoculation
To minimize gas porosity, foundries typically argon‑purge the molten CF3 before pouring.
They also add silicon (0.3–0.6 %) and aluminum (0.02–0.05 %) deoxidizers, which form stable oxides and reduce dissolved oxygen.
Finally, a small rare‑earth inoculant (e.g., 0.03–0.05 % Fe‑Ce) promotes fine, uniform δ‑ferrite and prevents microshrinkage, enhancing mechanical consistency.
Suitable Casting Methods for CF3 Stainless Steel
| Casting Method | Typical Applications | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sand Casting (Green or No-Bake) | Valve bodies, pump housings, flanges | – Cost-effective for large parts – Flexible for varied designs |
– Rougher surface finish (Ra 6–12 μm) – Tighter control needed for porosity |
| Shell Mold Casting | Instrumentation covers, small valves | – Good dimensional accuracy (±0.3%) – Fine surface finish (Ra 3–6 μm) |
– More expensive molds – Best for small to medium-sized parts |
| Investment Casting (Lost Wax) | Impellers, medical fittings, high-precision components | – Excellent surface finish (Ra < 3 μm) – High geometric complexity |
– Higher cost – Limited to small–medium parts |
| Centrifugal Casting | Bushings, rings, pipe sections | – High density – Low porosity – Good mechanical properties in radial direction |
– Suitable only for rotationally symmetric parts |
| Vacuum Casting | Critical components in aerospace, nuclear applications | – Reduced oxidation – Cleaner microstructure |
– Expensive – Requires specialized equipment |
| Ceramic Mold Casting | Complex heat-resistant parts | – Excellent surface detail – Good dimensional precision |
– Longer mold preparation time – Higher cost |
Heat Treatment Practices
After casting, CF3 typically undergoes solution annealing in the range of 1040–1120°C (1900–2050°F) followed by rapid water quenching. This process serves several purposes:
- Dissolves residual carbides, restoring corrosion resistance
- Homogenizes the microstructure, eliminating segregation from solidification
- Improves ductility and toughness by removing delta ferrite or brittle phases
Strict temperature control during annealing is critical. Insufficient quenching rates can result in sensitization and chromium depletion at grain boundaries, compromising corrosion resistance.
7. Corrosion Resistance
General Corrosion
In neutral and mildly acidic environments, CF3 maintains excellent resistance due to its chromium-rich passive film. Corrosion rates are typically < 0.05 mm/year in potable water and wastewater systems.
Localized Corrosion Resistance
The alloy shows good performance in environments containing chlorides up to ~200 ppm:
- Pitting Resistance Equivalent Number (PREN): ~18
- Critical Pitting Temperature (CPT): ~20–25°C (varies with chloride level)
Stress-Corrosion Cracking (SCC)
CF3’s low carbon content improves SCC resistance in chloride-bearing environments, particularly in the 50–100°C range, a known danger zone for austenitic grades.
8. Fabrication & Machinability
CNC Machining
CF3 machines comparably to wrought 304, with a machinability index of ~45 % (where 304 equals 50 %).
Shops typically use carbide tools, cutting speeds of 100–150 m/min, and feeds of 0.12–0.18 mm/rev, delivering surface finishes around Ra 1.6 µm.
Welding
Fabricators weld CF3 using 309 or 312 filler alloys without preheat.
Post‑weld annealing at 1,050 °C for one hour restores corrosion resistance, reducing delta‑ferrite and dissolving weld‑zone carbides.
Forming & Joining
Although CF3’s work‑hardening rate lags that of carbon steel, it tolerates cold forming reductions up to 40 %.
To prevent springback, designers recommend bend radii of at least 3× material thickness.
9. Applications of CF3 Stainless Steel
Valves, Pumps, and Fittings in Water Treatment
In municipal and industrial water treatment facilities, CF3 stainless steel is a material of choice for:
- Valve bodies and bonnets
- Pump casings and impellers
- Pipe fittings and couplings
Its resistance to chloride-induced corrosion, even in brackish or mildly saline environments, ensures long service life with minimal maintenance.
The low carbon content reduces the risk of sensitization during welding, which is critical for pressure-retaining systems.
Petrochemical and Oil & Gas Components
The oil and gas industry frequently uses CF3 for castings that encounter corrosive fluids, including hydrocarbons, hydrogen sulfide, and CO₂-rich environments. Common applications include:
- Compressor housings
- Manifolds and flowline components
- Metering valves and flanges
In up- and midstream systems, CF3 helps prevent stress-corrosion cracking (SCC) and pitting, which are accelerated by high chloride content or wet sour gas.
Food Processing and Pharmaceutical Equipment
Hygienic process systems require materials with excellent corrosion resistance, smooth surface finish, and compatibility with cleaning agents (CIP/SIP). CF3 fits these requirements, making it suitable for:
- Sanitary valves and pipe fittings
- Mixing and metering equipment
- Dosing pumps and housings
Its austenitic microstructure, which remains stable even after repeated sterilization cycles, helps meet FDA and 3-A Sanitary Standards in critical production environments.
Power Generation and Marine Hardware
- Steam and condensate system components
- Seawater pumps and valve parts
- Heat exchanger end covers
Its resistance to aqueous corrosion, biofouling, and oxidation at elevated temperatures enhances component longevity in these aggressive settings.
In marine environments, CF3 performs reliably in both surface and submerged service.
Other Emerging Applications
- Hydrogen handling systems: Due to its non-magnetic and crack-resistant nature
- Semiconductor wet-processing tools: Where ultra-clean, non-reactive materials are needed
- Additive-manufactured cast components: For reduced weight and complex design integration
10. Comparison with Alternative Materials
Selecting the appropriate stainless steel grade for a given application requires a deep understanding of the performance trade-offs between available options.
CF3 stainless steel, as the low-carbon cast equivalent of 304L, is often compared to related alloys such as CF3M, CF8, CF8M, and wrought 304 stainless.
| Property | CF3 (304L Cast) | CF3M (316L Cast) | CF8 (304 Cast) | CF8M (316 Cast) | 304L Wrought |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Molybdenum (Mo) Content | No | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Carbon Content | ≤ 0.03% (Low Carbon) | ≤ 0.03% (Low Carbon) | ≤ 0.08% | ≤ 0.08% | ≤ 0.03% (Low Carbon) |
| Chloride Resistance | Moderate | Excellent | Moderate | Excellent | Moderate |
| Pitting Resistance (PREN) | ~18 | ~25–27 | ~20 | ~25–27 | ~18 |
| Corrosion Resistance | Good | Excellent | Moderate | Excellent | Good |
| Weldability | Excellent | Excellent | Moderate | Moderate | Excellent |
| Cost | $$ | $$$ | $$ | $$$ | $$ |
| Strength (Tensile) | ~485 MPa | ~500 MPa | ~510 MPa | ~520 MPa | ~520 MPa |
| Elongation | ~40% | ~45% | ~45% | ~45% | ~45% |
| Formability | Excellent for cast parts | Excellent for cast parts | Good for cast parts | Good for cast parts | Excellent (for rolled or formed parts) |
| Applications | Water systems, food-grade parts | Chemical, marine, offshore | General industrial parts | Marine, chemical, offshore | High-ductility, thin-walled parts |
11. Conclusion
In summary, CF3 stainless steel merges the proven corrosion resistance of 304 with the versatility of casting.
Its balanced chemistry, robust mechanical profile, and proven long‑term durability make CF3 an authoritative choice for medium‑duty corrosive environments.
Moreover, with annual global production exceeding 50,000 tonnes and scrap rates under 6 %, CF3 delivers both economic and performance advantages.
Looking forward, integrating CF3 into hybrid casting–additive workflows and exploring surface treatments promises to extend its service envelope—ensuring CF3 remains a cornerstone alloy in industrial applications.
LangHe is the perfect choice for your manufacturing needs if you need high-quality stainless steel castings.
FAQs on CF3 Stainless Steel
Is CF3 Stainless Steel suitable for high-temperature applications?
CF3 is generally suitable for moderate-temperature applications (up to about 800°F or 427°C).
For higher temperatures, or when oxidation resistance at elevated temperatures is critical,
other grades like CF8M or 316 stainless steel may be more appropriate due to their enhanced high-temperature properties.
Can CF3 be welded?
Yes, CF3 stainless steel is highly weldable. Its low carbon content minimizes the risk of carbide formation during welding, reducing the chances of intergranular corrosion.
However, it is always recommended to use appropriate welding techniques and post-weld heat treatments when working with this material in critical applications.
Is CF3 Suitable for Cryogenic Applications?
Yes, CF3 exhibits good toughness at low temperatures, making it suitable for use in cryogenic applications such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage and transportation.
Can CF3 Be Heat Treated?
CF3 is generally not heat treatable for strengthening purposes. However, it can be annealed to relieve stresses and improve machinability.
How does CF3 Stainless Steel perform in seawater?
CF3 offers moderate resistance to seawater corrosion, but it is not as resistant as CF3M or CF8M, which have enhanced chloride resistance due to the presence of molybdenum.
In marine environments with high salinity, CF3 may experience some pitting corrosion over time, so CF3M or CF8M might be more suitable.
How should CF3 Stainless Steel be maintained?
Regular maintenance of CF3 stainless steel includes:
- Cleaning: Removing contaminants such as chlorine, salt, and chemicals that could cause localized corrosion.
- Inspection: Checking for any signs of pitting or crevice corrosion, especially in marine or chemical environments.
- Welding: Ensuring proper post-weld heat treatment to avoid cracking or sensitization.
Can CF3 Stainless Steel be used in food contact applications?
Yes, CF3 is often used in food processing equipment due to its corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning.
It complies with FDA and 3-A Sanitary Standards, making it a suitable choice for sanitary valves, pumps, and piping systems.
