PACIFIC 303 stainless steel is the free machining version of austenitic (non-magnetic) stainless steel. Being an 18% chromium - 8% nickel grade, it is resistant to atmospheric corrosion , foodstuffs, most organic chemicals and a wide variety of inorganic chemicals. As with other 18-8 type stainless grades, sensitization to intergranular corrosion can occur if type 303 is heated between 800°F and 1650°F or if cooled slowly through this temperature range. Passivation is suggested where maximum corrosion resistance is required. Welding is not recommended because of the high sulfur content. 300 series stainless steels are not hardenable by heat treatment. Smaller diameters are usually stocked with a cold drawn surface condition. Diameters 3/4" and larger usually have a smooth turned surface finish. Unlike carbon and low alloy cold finished bars, stainless diameter tolerances are both plus and minus from nominal size.