Stainless Steel Plate
Alloy 347 Stainless Steel in Food Processing
In the food and beverage manufacturing and processing industry, it is common for stainless steel to be used for everything from containers, vats, ovens and piping systems to bulk storage tanks, machinery parts, valves, fittings and other food contact equipment. There are a variety of requirements, however, that must be met in the manufacturing of stainless steel for the food industry. One of the most important components in food grade stainless steel is the finish. It must have a sanitary finish that is safe for processing food products and can easily and reliably be cleaned and sanitized. If not, the surface may be susceptible to harmful bacteria growth.
Most food processing equipment is made from 304 or 316 type austenitic stainless steels. Type 347 stainless steel is a modification of 304 stainless steel for use at temperatures above 800°F. Among all of 347’s properties, its combination of corrosion resistance and heat resistance makes it an ideal stainless steel for food processing equipment particularly where heat is present. Surface pits and defects can actually encourage bacteria growth from food handling and the chemicals used to sanitize the equipment. Intergranular corrosion can occur in 304 stainless steel in the heat-affected zone from welding or from high temperature service in the chromium carbide precipitation range of 800°F to 1500°F. Since the corrosion resistance of Type 347 stainless steel is comparable to 304 stainless steel, applications where a combination corrosion and heat resistance make this alloy stabilized with columbium an ideal choice for food processing applications.
At Sandmeyer Steel Company, type 347 stainless steel plate is stocked in thicknesses ranging from 3/16” up to 4”. To find out more information on why 347 is a suitable food grade stainless steel, click 347 stainless steel properties. Contact us by email at sales@sandmeyersteel.com or by phone at 1-800-523-3663. For a price and delivery quote, click here, complete the online form, click submit, and a representative will be in touch with you.
NOTE: The information and data in this product data sheet are accurate to the best of our knowledge and belief, but are intended for informational purposes only, and may be revised at any time without notice. Applications suggested for the materials are described only to help readers make their own evaluations and decisions, and are neither guarantees nor to be construed as express or implied warranties of suitability for these or other applications.
