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Series 300 beams for ocean front use

Magnetic stainless steel series 300. I would like to know why a series 300 stainless steel rectangular beam has some magnetic properties at the edges and near the punched installation holes. Also, if this beam is going to be installed at an ocean front property, is the beam going to corrode with the air moisture and how fast?. Thanks for your help.

Sergio Salazar
consulting engineer - Miami, Florida
2004

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First, some 300 grade steels are magnetic.

Second, in the punching, cutting, etc. process you could be changing the structure from austenite to magnetic in those areas, depending on the grade and process.

Resistance to the salt spray near the ocean depends on the grade of steel. Anything less than 316 will not be good enough, and I recommend even a better grade, if possible.

Proper passivation of the steel before installation is a must to get good corrosion resistance.

Lee Kremer
Stellar Solutions, Inc.

McHenry, Illinois

2004