1.1 This specification covers stainless steel wire, except the free-machining types. It includes round, square, octagon, hexagon, and shape wire in coils only for the more commonly used types of stainless steels for general corrosion resistance and high-temperature service. For bars in straightened and cut lengths, see Specifications A 276 or A 479/A 479M.

Note 1—For free-machining stainless wire, designed especially for optimum machinability, see Specification A 581/A 581M.

1.2 The values stated in either inch-pound units or SI (metric) units are to be regarded separately as standards; 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.

1.3 Unless the order specifies the applicable "M" specification designation, the material shall be furnished to the inch-pound units.