1.1?This specification covers free-machining stainless steels of cold-finished wire and hot-finished wire rods in coils. Wire rods are a semi-finished product primarily for the manufacture of wire. Wire includes rounds, squares, hexagons, and special shapes in free-machining stainless steels designed especially for optimum machinability and for general corrosion and high-temperature service.

1.2?The following alloys are covered:

1.3?The values stated in either inch-pound units or SI (metric) units are to be regarded separately as standard; within the text and tables, the SI units are shown in [brackets]. The values stated in each system are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the specification.

1.4?Unless the order specifies the applicable “M” specification designation, the material shall be furnished to the inch-pound units.

1.5?This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.