Different types of stainless steel, each with unique properties and applications, can be turned on a CNC lathe. Here's a summary of the common types of stainless steel used in CNC turning:

• Austenitic Stainless Steel: Austenitic stainless steel, such as 304 and 316, is the most commonly used type of stainless steel in CNC turning due to its excellent formability, machinability, and corrosion resistance. Among their many applications are food processing machinery, medical implants, and architectural elements.

• Martensitic Stainless Steel: Martensitic stainless steels, such as 410 and 431, are harder and more robust than austenitic grades. They are used in applications like bearings, pump parts, and cutting tools that require high wear resistance and strength, despite being more difficult to machine.

• Ferritic Stainless Steel: Ferritic stainless steel, available in grades 409 and 430, is the least expensive type. It is stronger than austenitic grades but has superior corrosion resistance. They are suitable for applications such as home utensils, car parts, and appliance parts where corrosion resistance and cost are important considerations.

• Duplex Stainless Steel: Duplex stainless steels, such as S31803 and S32304, combine the high strength and hardness of martensitic grades with the corrosion resistance of austenitic grades. They are used in demanding applications where high strength and resistance to corrosion are crucial, such as seawater pumps, chemical processing machinery, and offshore oil drilling equipment.

• Precipitation-Hardening Stainless Steel: The strength and hardness of precipitately hardening stainless steels, such as 17-4PH and 630, are very high and can be further enhanced by heat treatment. They are used in aerospace parts, high-performance springs, and medical devices, among other uses where exceptional strength and wear resistance are required.

Depending on the specific application requirements, stainless steel is selected for CNC turning, taking into account factors like strength, corrosion resistance, cost, and machinability. The best grade of stainless steel for your specific needs can be selected with the assistance of skilled CNC machinists and material engineers.