347 stainless steel mesh is made from niobium-stabilized austenitic 347 stainless steel, designed for high-temperature applications where welding or thermal cycling is required. It offers superior resistance to intergranular corrosion and performs exceptionally well in heat-intensive environments (e.g., furnaces, exhaust systems).
Key Features of 347 Stainless Steel Mesh:
Material Composition (UNS S34700 / AISI 347)
– Chromium (17-19%) → Provides oxidation & corrosion resistance.
– Nickel (9-13%) → Enhances toughness and high-temperature strength.
– Niobium (10× Carbon min.) ⭐ Key Advantage! → Prevents carbide precipitation (better than 321 in welding).
– Carbon (≤0.08%) → Low carbon reduces sensitization.
– Iron (Balance) → Maintains structural integrity.
Temperature Resistance:
– Continuous Service: Up to 900°C (1650°F).
– Intermittent Service: Up to 925°C (1700°F).
– Better than 304/316 in prolonged high-heat exposure.
Corrosion Resistance:
✔ Excellent resistance to intergranular corrosion (due to niobium stabilization).
✔ Good against oxidation, sulfur gases, and mild acids.
✔ Not ideal for chloride-rich environments (use 316L or 904L instead).
– Weave Types:
– Plain Weave (standard for filtration).
– Twill Weave (higher strength, smoother flow).
– Welded Mesh (rigid structural applications).
– Mesh Sizes: From fine (200+ mesh) to coarse (1/4″ openings).
– Wire Diameter: Varies by application (thicker for heat shielding).
Top Applications of 347 Stainless Steel Mesh:
Aerospace & Jet Engines
– Exhaust systems, afterburner components, heat shields.
Petrochemical & Refining
– Catalyst grids, furnace parts, cracking tubes.
Heat Treatment & Furnace Equipment
– Conveyor belts, radiant tubes, annealing trays.
Power Generation
– Boiler components, superheater screens.
Welded Fabrications
– Where post-weld corrosion resistance is critical.
Comparison with Similar Alloys:
Property | 347 Mesh | 321 Mesh | 304 Mesh | 310 Mesh |
Stabilizer | Niobium | Titanium | None | None |
Max Temp | 900°C | 900°C | 870°C | 1150°C |
Weldability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
Chloride Resistance | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
When to Choose 347 Mesh?
– High-temperature welded assemblies (better than 321).
– Applications requiring thermal cycling resistance.
– Where 304/316 would fail due to carbide precipitation.
When to Avoid 347?
– Marine/chloride exposure (use 316L or 904L).
– Extreme heat beyond 1000°C (use 310 or Inconel).
Fabrication Notes:
– Welding: Use 347 filler metal for best results.
– Work Hardening: Can be formed but may require annealing.
– Avoid Contamination: Keep away from carbon steel tools.
Standards & Equivalent Grades:
– UNS S34700 (ASTM/ASME)
– EN 1.4550 (European Standard)
– AISI 347 (Common U.S. designation)
Final Verdict
347 stainless steel mesh is ideal for high-temperature, welded applications where intergranular corrosion resistance is crucial. It outperforms 304/316 in heat and 321 in weld stability, making it a top choice for aerospace, petrochemical, and furnace components.
For higher temps (1100°C+), consider 310 or RA330. For marine/acidic environments, 316L or 904L is better.