AISI
AISI stands for "American Iron and Steel Institute", which means the American Iron and Steel Institute. It is the group that created the marking system for steel alloys. This system is widely used to identify and classify different types of steel materials. The abbreviation AISI is most often associated with standards for steel.
Steels are classified according to the AISI system or series based on chemical composition and properties. The two most widespread series are AISI 300 and AISI 400 series:
AISI 300 series: This series contains stainless steels and are known for their resistance to corrosion. This includes, for example, 304 (18/8), 316 (10/10) and 316L stainless steel. These steels contain nickel and chromium, which gives them their characteristic properties.
AISI 400 series: This series contains steels with a higher carbon content and are known for their hardness. This includes, for example, 410, 416 and 420 stainless steel. These steels are often used to make knives and other tools.
In addition to these two main series, there are many others that cover different specific needs and features. Steels are identified by a numerical code that indicates the series and specific type of steel. For example, AISI 304 refers to a specific type of stainless steel from the AISI 300 series.
This steel marking system is used all over the world and allows better identification and classification of different types of steel based on their properties and uses.