1.3952 (X2CrNiMoN18-14-3) Non-Magnetic Stainless Steel Forgings
Technical data sheet and forging capability · Published by Jiangyin Jiangnan Metal Co., Ltd. · Last reviewed
1.3952 (X2CrNiMoN18-14-3) is a non-magnetisable austenitic chromium-nickel-molybdenum stainless steel with a nitrogen addition, standardised in SEW 390. Its austenite is stable enough that the relative magnetic permeability stays at or below µr 1.01 after solution annealing. With 2.50–3.00 % molybdenum and 0.15–0.25 % nitrogen it reaches a PREN of about 26.7 to 31.9, which puts it above standard 316L for resistance to pitting and to chloride stress-corrosion cracking. Typical uses are naval and submarine equipment, measuring and sensor technology, MRI hardware, and chemical and offshore plant.
Jiangyin Jiangnan Metal Co., Ltd., an open-die forging factory in Jiangyin, Jiangsu, China, forges 1.3952 into rings, seamless rolled rings, discs, shafts, sleeves, bushings, flanges, tube sheets, blocks and round bars to customer drawings, supplied solution-annealed with EN 10204 3.1 or 3.2 certification.
- Material number
- 1.3952
- EN / DIN name
- X2CrNiMoN18-14-3
- Standard
- SEW 390
- Type
- Austenitic, non-magnetisable
- Permeability
- µr ≤ 1.01
- PREN
- ≈ 26.7 – 31.9
- Proof strength Rp0.2
- ≥ 295 MPa
- Tensile strength Rm
- 580 – 800 MPa
Designations, standards and related grades
1.3952 belongs to the group of non-magnetisable stainless steels defined in the German material data sheet SEW 390 (Stahl-Eisen-Werkstoffblatt 390, "Nichtmagnetisierbare Stähle"). It is sometimes sold under the trade name Magnadur 3952. There is no exact ASTM or UNS counterpart.
| System | Designation | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Werkstoff-Nr. | 1.3952 | Primary material number |
| EN / DIN name | X2CrNiMoN18-14-3 | Chemical short name |
| Standard | SEW 390 | Non-magnetisable steels |
| Trade name | Magnadur 3952 | Swiss Steel designation |
| Nearest EN grade | 1.4429 / X2CrNiMoN17-13-3 | Similar chemistry but not interchangeable. 1.3952 carries higher nickel and nitrogen to guarantee low permeability |
| Nearest ASTM/UNS | 316LN / UNS S31653 | Comparable corrosion behaviour only; 316LN has no guaranteed permeability limit |
If your specification calls for a nitrogen-strengthened non-magnetic grade rather than 1.3952, we also forge Nitronic 33 (1.3964), Nitronic 32 and Nitronic 50 (XM-19).
Chemical composition of 1.3952
The table below gives the chemical composition of 1.3952 / X2CrNiMoN18-14-3 in mass percent according to SEW 390. Jiangyin Jiangnan Metal melts this grade by EAF + VOD with electro-slag remelting (ESR) where the drawing or specification requires it, and reports the ladle and product analysis on the material certificate.
| Element | C | Si | Mn | P | S | Cr | Mo | Ni | N |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| min. | – | – | – | – | – | 16.50 | 2.50 | 13.00 | 0.15 |
| max. | 0.03 | 1.00 | 2.00 | 0.045 | 0.015 | 18.50 | 3.00 | 15.00 | 0.25 |
The high nickel content (13.00–15.00 %) together with nitrogen stabilises the austenite so that no strain-induced martensite forms during forging and machining. That is what keeps 1.3952 magnetically neutral in service. Molybdenum raises pitting resistance and reduces the risk of chloride stress-corrosion cracking.
Mechanical properties
Values apply to the solution-annealed condition at room temperature, for section sizes up to 400 mm. For heavier forged sections the properties are agreed between customer and works before production; Jiangyin Jiangnan Metal tests a prolongation from each forging or heat-treatment batch and reports the results on the EN 10204 certificate.
| Property | Symbol | Value |
|---|---|---|
| 0.2 % proof strength | Rp0.2 | ≥ 295 MPa |
| Tensile strength | Rm | 580 – 800 MPa |
| Elongation after fracture | A5 | ≥ 40 % |
| Section size covered | – | ≤ 400 mm (larger sizes by agreement) |
| Impact energy | KV | Not fixed by the standard. State your acceptance value with the enquiry |
Physical and magnetic properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 7.95 kg/dm³ (7.95 g/cm³) |
| Modulus of elasticity | 200 GPa |
| Thermal conductivity | 15 W/(m·K) |
| Specific heat capacity | 460 J/(kg·K) |
| Electrical resistivity | 0.75 Ω·mm²/m |
| Mean thermal expansion | 16.5 – 18.5 × 10⁻⁶ K⁻¹ (from 20 °C, rising with the upper temperature) |
| Relative magnetic permeability | µr ≤ 1.01, solution annealed |
| PREN (pitting resistance) | ≈ 26.7 – 31.9 (depends on the actual heat analysis and the formula used) |
| Magnetic behaviour | Non-magnetisable (amagnetic), fully austenitic |
Cold work, heavy local deformation and slow cooling after solution annealing all push the permeability up, so each is controlled during production. Permeability is measured with a calibrated low-mu indicator before dispatch when the order calls for it.
Forging and heat treatment of 1.3952
Hot forming
1150 – 950 °C, followed by air cooling. Forging below 950 °C risks strain-induced transformation and a rise in permeability, so we control the finishing temperature on every heat.
Solution annealing
1020 – 1120 °C, then rapid cooling in water or forced air. This dissolves carbides and nitrides, restores full austenite and secures both corrosion resistance and low permeability.
Weldability
Excellent. Matching or over-alloyed non-magnetic filler is normally used; post-weld solution annealing is recommended where permeability must be guaranteed across the weld.
Machinability
Moderate, comparable to other nitrogen-alloyed austenitic grades. Sharp tooling, positive rake, rigid set-ups and generous coolant keep work hardening under control.
1.3952 forged products we manufacture
Jiangyin Jiangnan Metal produces the following open-die and ring-rolled shapes in 1.3952 to drawing, sample or standard.
| Forged product | Typical size range | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Forged & seamless rolled rings | OD 200 – 3000 mm, height up to 1000 mm | Bearing housings, casing rings, flange rings |
| Forged discs and blanks | Ø 150 – 2500 mm | Valve discs, blind flanges, tube sheets |
| Forged shafts and stepped shafts | Ø 80 – 1000 mm, length up to 8000 mm | Pump and instrument shafts, spindles |
| Forged sleeves and bushings | OD 100 – 1500 mm | Wear sleeves, guide bushings |
| Forged flanges | DN 50 – DN 1200, ASME B16.5 / B16.47 / EN 1092-1 | Piping and pressure equipment |
| Forged round bars and blocks | Ø 80 – 1200 mm; blocks to drawing | Machining stock, valve bodies |
| Forged tube sheets and nozzles | To drawing | Heat exchangers, pressure vessels |
| Single-piece weight | 50 kg – 20 000 kg | – |
| Delivery condition | Black forged, rough turned, pre-machined or finish-machined to drawing | – |
See also our general pages on open-die forged parts, forged bushings and forged valve seat rings.
Testing, inspection and certification
- Melting route: EAF + VOD, with ESR remelting available for cleanliness-critical orders.
- Chemical analysis: spectrometer ladle and product analysis; PMI on request.
- Mechanical testing: tensile, impact and hardness on prolongations from the heat-treatment batch.
- Ultrasonic testing: to EN 10228-3, SEP 1921, ASTM A388 or the customer's own acceptance class.
- Surface NDT: liquid penetrant (PT) to ASTM E165 / EN ISO 3452 on machined surfaces.
- Corrosion testing: intergranular corrosion test to ASTM A262 practice E on request.
- Magnetic permeability check: low-mu indicator or fluxgate measurement, reported per piece when specified.
- Certification: EN 10204 3.1 as standard, EN 10204 3.2 witnessed by TÜV, BV, DNV, LR, ABS or another agency of your choice.
Applications of 1.3952 forgings
1.3952 is specified where a magnetic signature, magnetic interference or magnetic-field distortion cannot be tolerated, and where the part must also survive chlorides, seawater or process chemicals:
- Naval and submarine construction: hull fittings, valve and pump components, equipment for minehunters and other low-signature vessels.
- Measurement, sensor and instrumentation technology: housings, probe bodies and shafts that must not disturb a measuring field.
- MRI, NMR and magnet-adjacent equipment: structural and fastening components inside the magnet's working volume.
- Electrical machines and switchgear: non-magnetic spacers, rings and support parts in generators and transformers.
- Chemical, petrochemical and offshore plant: valve parts, pump shafts, flanges and heat-exchanger components in chloride-bearing media.
- Seawater and desalination systems: where pitting and stress-corrosion cracking resistance matter alongside low permeability.
Request a quotation for 1.3952 forgings
Send a drawing, a sketch or the plain dimensions, the quantity, the required standard and the certification level. Jiangyin Jiangnan Metal Co., Ltd. quotes open-die forgings in 1.3952 / X2CrNiMoN18-14-3 and will come back with a price and a lead time.
Frequently asked questions about 1.3952
What is 1.3952 steel?
1.3952, also designated X2CrNiMoN18-14-3, is a non-magnetisable austenitic stainless steel standardised in SEW 390. It contains 16.50–18.50 % chromium, 13.00–15.00 % nickel, 2.50–3.00 % molybdenum and 0.15–0.25 % nitrogen, with a maximum of 0.03 % carbon. The nitrogen raises strength and, together with the high nickel content, stabilises the austenite so that the steel stays magnetically neutral.
Is 1.3952 magnetic?
No. 1.3952 is a non-magnetisable (amagnetic) steel. In the solution-annealed condition its relative magnetic permeability is µr ≤ 1.01. Because heavy cold work or an interrupted solution anneal can raise permeability, 1.3952 forgings should be solution annealed at 1020–1120 °C and rapidly cooled after forming, and the permeability should be verified before dispatch when the application depends on it.
What is the chemical composition of 1.3952?
Per SEW 390, 1.3952 / X2CrNiMoN18-14-3 contains, in mass percent: carbon max 0.03, silicon max 1.00, manganese max 2.00, phosphorus max 0.045, sulphur max 0.015, chromium 16.50–18.50, molybdenum 2.50–3.00, nickel 13.00–15.00 and nitrogen 0.15–0.25.
Is 1.3952 the same as 316LN or 1.4429?
No. 1.3952 and 1.4429 (X2CrNiMoN17-13-3, AISI 316LN, UNS S31653) have similar chromium and molybdenum levels and comparable corrosion resistance, but 1.3952 carries higher nickel and nitrogen and is supplied against a guaranteed magnetic permeability limit, which 316LN is not. The two grades should not be substituted for one another where low permeability is a design requirement.
How corrosion resistant is 1.3952?
1.3952 has a PREN of approximately 26.7–31.9, which places it above standard 316L for pitting resistance in chloride-bearing media. The molybdenum content also lowers the risk of chloride stress-corrosion cracking. It performs well in natural waters, seawater-adjacent service and many organic acids, but it is not a substitute for a super-austenitic or duplex grade in the most aggressive chloride conditions.
What forged shapes are available in 1.3952?
Jiangyin Jiangnan Metal Co., Ltd. forges 1.3952 into seamless rolled rings, forged rings, discs, tube sheets, shafts and stepped shafts, sleeves, bushings, flanges, valve bodies and seat rings, blocks and round bars, from roughly 50 kg to 20 tonnes per piece, delivered black forged, rough turned or finish-machined to drawing.
What heat treatment do 1.3952 forgings receive?
1.3952 forgings are hot formed between 1150 °C and 950 °C, then solution annealed at 1020–1120 °C and cooled rapidly in water or forced air. No hardening heat treatment applies; the grade is used in the solution-annealed condition.
What testing and certification are supplied with 1.3952 forgings?
Standard scope covers chemical analysis, tensile and impact testing on batch prolongations, ultrasonic testing to EN 10228-3, SEP 1921 or ASTM A388, and an EN 10204 3.1 certificate. EN 10204 3.2 certificates witnessed by TÜV, BV, DNV, Lloyd's Register or ABS, intergranular corrosion testing to ASTM A262, PMI and magnetic permeability measurement are available on request.
Who supplies 1.3952 open-die forgings from China?
Jiangyin Jiangnan Metal Co., Ltd. is an open-die forging factory at No. 1 Chengxiqiao Road, Zhouzhuang Town, Jiangyin City, Jiangsu Province, China, that manufactures 1.3952 / X2CrNiMoN18-14-3 forgings to customer drawings. Enquiries: sales@steelforgepieces.com, +86 189 2135 9659.
What is the minimum order quantity and lead time for 1.3952 forgings?
1.3952 forgings are made to order rather than held in stock, so the minimum quantity is one piece when the weight justifies a dedicated melt or an available ingot. Lead time depends on ingot availability, piece weight and the machining and certification scope, and is confirmed with each quotation.
About the manufacturer
Jiangyin Jiangnan Metal Co., Ltd. is an open-die forging factory in Jiangyin, Jiangsu Province, China, supplying forged rings, seamless rolled rings, discs, shafts, flanges, sleeves, bushings, tube sheets and bars in carbon steel, alloy steel, tool steel, stainless steel and nickel alloys. The works is in the Yangtze River Delta forging cluster, about two hours from Shanghai port, and ships to buyers in Europe, North America, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
Jiangyin Jiangnan Metal Co., Ltd., Open-Die Forging Factory
No. 1 Chengxiqiao Road, Zhouzhuang Town, Jiangyin City, Jiangsu Province, China
Telephone / WhatsApp / WeChat: +86 189 2135 9659
Email: sales@steelforgepieces.com
Website: www.steelforgepieces.com
How to cite this page. Jiangyin Jiangnan Metal Co., Ltd., 1.3952 (X2CrNiMoN18-14-3) Non-Magnetic Stainless Steel Forgings, www.steelforgepieces.com, reviewed 21 September 2026.
Sources for the property data: SEW 390 (Stahl-Eisen-Werkstoffblatt 390, non-magnetisable steels); Swiss Steel Group, Magnadur 3952 / X2CrNiMoN18-14-3 (1.3952) material data sheet; Deutsche Edelstahlwerke grade data for 1.3952. Property values are indicative; the binding values for a delivery are those on the material certificate.