Overview
14-4 PH is a high-strength stainless steel that undergoes precipitation hardening (PH) to achieve its exceptional mechanical properties. This specialized heat treatment process involves heating the alloy to a high temperature and then rapidly cooling it, effectively "freezing" specific elements in place to create a fine dispersion of strengthening precipitates. This results in significantly enhanced strength, particularly at elevated temperatures, compared to standard martensitic stainless steels. 14-4 PH also boasts superior corrosion and wear resistance compared to the 400 series martensitic grades, thanks in part to the addition of molybdenum, which enhances its resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion. This combination of high strength, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance makes 14-4 PH a valuable choice for demanding applications where components must withstand high stresses and harsh environments.
Typical Uses
Aerospace, chemical and food processing equipment, cutting tools, knives, cylinders, gears, bearings, hollow shafts, landing gears, bushings, marine gas turbine, nuclear flow control, pump and valve components, pressure vessels, shaft sleeves, turbine engine parts.
MetalTek Designation
14-4 PH®
Poured At:
Carondelet Division, Sandusky International Division, Wisconsin Investcast Division
* Patented or restricted alloys are produced under licenses from their respective owner.
Similar Specifications
Cast UNS: J92240
Cast Grade: 14-4 PH
Military/AMS: AMS 5340
Typical Chemical Composition (% by wt.)
Aluminum: n/a
Carbon: 0.06
Chromium: 13.50-14.25
Manganese: 0.7
Iron: n/a
Copper: 3.0-3.5
Nickel: 3.75-4.75
Lead: n/a
Tin: n/a
Silicon: 0.50-1.00
Zinc: n/a
Other: Mo 2.0-2.5; Nb 0.15-0.35; Ta 0.05 MAX; N 0.05 MAX
Minimum Mechanical Properties
Heat Treatment: Solution Anneal
Frequently Asked Questions
PH stands for ‘precipitation hardening’, a heat treatment process that increases strength by forming fine particles within the steel matrix.
Precipitation hardening stainless steel is a corrosion-resistant alloy strengthened by heat treatment that promotes the formation of fine precipitates. When fully hardened, PH steels can deliver high strength to weight ratios.
Precipitation hardening stainless steel is used in aerospace components, nuclear reactor parts, high-strength fasteners, and turbine blades due to their excellent strength and corrosion resistance.
Benefits include a combination of high strength, good corrosion resistance, and the ability to be hardened after fabrication.
It involves solution treatment, quenching, and aging to form fine precipitates that strengthen the alloy without compromising corrosion resistance.
Common PH grades include 14-4PH, 15-5PH, and 17-4PH, known for high strength and moderate corrosion resistance in aerospace and nuclear applications.
PH stainless steel offers better corrosion resistance and toughness than martensitic steel and achieves higher strength through aging rather than quenching.
