Outokumpu Stainless Bar announces the introduction of Outokumpu 17-4 PRODEC®, for improved machining. The new stainless steel product, part of a family of PRODEC (which stands for PRODuction EConomy) grades created by Outokumpu, will be produced at the Richburg, South Carolina bar mill. The new stainless steel grade was developed as a direct result of growing market demand for better-machining 17-4 stainless steel.
“Customers specify 17-4 because of its ability to be age hardened, as well as for its high strength and corrosion resistance. But many of our customers were looking for the premium machining performance in 17-4 that they have come to expect in our specialty grades like 316L PRODEC®,” explained Lou Kern, Senior Vice President for Outokumpu Stainless Bar. “As a result, we are now producing Outokumpu 17-4 PRODEC in bar form.”
Produced exclusively by Outokumpu for more than twenty-five years, the PRODEC brand is a premium quality stainless steel specially melted and treated by Outokumpu’s proprietary ladle metallurgy techniques. “PRODEC denotes a grade that maximizes machinability while retaining good mechanical properties and corrosion resistance,” Kern added. PRODEC bar shows the same yield strength, tensile strength, elongation, hardness, and toughness as conventionally produced bar.
Testing has shown Outokumpu 17-4 PRODEC has improved machining characteristics with superior chip formation and reduced tool wear, when compared to Outokumpu’s standard 17-4. Outokumpu 17-4 PRODEC is available in 9/16” through 6 ½” diameters.
Orders for Outokumpu 17-4 PRODEC will be accepted starting April 7. Production times will be the same as that for standard 17-4. Pricing of Outokumpu 17-4 PRODEC will carry a premium. Standard 17-4 will continue to be offered at current price levels.
Outokumpu Specialty Stainless
Outokumpu is the global leader in stainless steel and high performance alloys. Out advanced materials are the ideal choice for demanding applications ranging from cutlery to bridges, energy plants to medical equipment. Stainless steel contributes to a sustainable and long lasting world as it is 100% recyclable, corrosion-resistant, maintenance-free, durable and hygienic material. Outokumpu employees over 16,000 professionals in over 40 countries, with the Group’s head office in Espoo, Finland and shares listed on NASDAQ OMX Helsinki.
www.outokumpu.com
