1.1 This specification covers martensitic stainless steels for various structural, architectural, pressure vessel, and heat-resisting applications. The mechanical properties of these steels are customarily, but not necessarily, developed by a suitable heat treatment generally referred to as tempering.

1.2 Steel products under this specification are available in two grades:

1.3 The maximum thickness of plates is limited only by the capacity of the composition to meet the specified mechanical property requirements; however, current practice normally limits the maximum thickness of plates furnished under this specification to 2 in. [50 mm].

1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.