Project Description
Overview of XM19 Non-Magnetic Stainless Steel
XM19 (designated as Magnadur 3964 mod) is a high-performance non-magnetic stainless steel engineered for extreme operational demands in the oil and gas sector. As a premium grade within our non-magnetic steel portfolio, XM19 distinguishes itself through a unique composition profile featuring elevated chromium and nickel content alongside precise additions of molybdenum, vanadium, and nitrogen.
This specialized alloy guarantees exceptional magnetic neutrality with a permeability of μ < 1.01, making it indispensable for applications where magnetic interference must be entirely eliminated. Beyond its non-magnetic properties, XM19 delivers superior general corrosion resistance—surpassing standard austenitic stainless steels—and excellent strain-hardening capabilities, allowing it to achieve high yield strengths while maintaining outstanding toughness. It is the definitive material choice for critical downhole measurement and directional drilling environments.
Equivalent Grades
XM19 corresponds to UNS S20910 and is commonly recognized under tradenames such as Magnadur 3964 mod and Nitronic 50. It is formally designated as XM19 under ASTM standards, ensuring broad international recognition for petroleum engineering applications.
Applications in Directional Drilling and Measurement
XM19 non-magnetic stainless steel is specifically designed for petroleum measurement and directional drilling applications where magnetic interference must be eliminated while maintaining structural integrity in corrosive environments. It is widely utilized in non-magnetic drill collars and Measurement-While-Drilling (MWD) components that require absolute magnetic neutrality.
- Measurement-While-Drilling (MWD) components for real-time downhole data transmission
- Non-magnetic drill collars for directional drilling trajectory control
- Downhole measurement instruments and logging tools in petroleum exploration
- Survey instruments for wellbore trajectory mapping
- Specialty fasteners and connectors in downhole assemblies
- Precision measurement tools in aggressive mining environments
In highly corrosive environments where CRA piping solutions are deployed, XM19 provides the necessary structural integrity and magnetic neutrality for precise downhole monitoring.
Specifications and Industry Standards
XM19 (UNS S20910) is recognized under several international material standards and qualified for stringent industry testing protocols. Compliance with these standards ensures reliability in the most demanding downhole conditions.
- ASTM A276 / A479 – Standard specification for stainless steel bars and shapes
- AMS 5766 – Bars, wire, forgings, and tubing for corrosion-resistant applications
- ASTM A262 Practice A and E – Intergranular corrosion testing protocols
- API Specifications – Qualified for drill collar applications
- NACE Standards – Requirements for sour service applications
The Magnadur 3964 mod designation specifically complies with common OEM specifications within the oil and gas sector, guaranteeing seamless integration into existing drilling systems.
Available Sizes and Delivery Options
SHUNFU METAL supplies XM19 across comprehensive dimension ranges, tailored to your structural requirements. We maintain ready stock and offer flexible custom manufacturing to meet project timelines. Learn more about our production capabilities on our about us page.
- Condition A (Solution Annealed)
- Rolled/forged round bars from Ø 20 mm to 247.65 mm (⁷/₈" to 9³/₄")
- High Strength (Strain-Hardened)
- Rolled/forged round bars from Ø 20 mm to 210 mm (⁷/₈" to 8⁵/₈")
- Hollow Bars / Drill Collar Blanks
- Available per API specifications with custom internal dimensions
We demonstrate comprehensive thermal and machining capabilities, utilizing API-standard regularly calibrated heat treatment furnaces, BTA deep hole boring machines, and CNC lathes and milling centers.
Lead Times and Minimum Order Quantities
- Ready Stock: Available for single-piece orders, approx. 7-day delivery.
- Custom Forgings/Rolled Bars: MOQ of 3 tons, approx. 30-day delivery.
- Small-Batch Special Grades: Melted via small induction furnaces from 3-5 tons.
- Large-Batch Orders: Rapid delivery via 30-60 ton EAF capacity.
Chemical Composition
The carefully balanced chemistry of XM19 non-magnetic stainless steel ensures both superior corrosion resistance and stringent magnetic permeability control. The elevated nitrogen and manganese content stabilizes the austenitic structure, preventing magnetic transformation even under severe cold working.
| Element | C | Si | Mn | P | S | Cr | Ni | Mo | V | Nb | N |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min | - | - | 4.0 | - | - | 20.5 | 11.5 | 1.50 | 0.10 | 0.10 | 0.20 |
| Max | 0.06 | 1.00 | 6.0 | 0.045 | 0.030 | 23.5 | 13.5 | 3.00 | 0.30 | 0.30 | 0.40 |
Melting and Processing Routes
SHUNFU METAL offers flexible melting routes for XM19 non-magnetic stainless steel to align with your project's severity of service. Standard production utilizes EAF + AOD + LF + VD to ensure high purity for stainless steel.
For enhanced cleanliness and structural homogeneity in critical MWD applications, Electro-Slag Remelting (ESR) or PESR is available. For the most demanding downhole environments requiring ultimate fatigue resistance, we provide VIM + VAR. Customers can negotiate with our metallurgical team to select the optimal melting route based on specific application requirements and cost targets.
Mechanical Properties
XM19 delivers robust mechanical performance across both solution-annealed and strain-hardened conditions. The strain-hardening process significantly increases yield strength while retaining sufficient ductility for rigorous downhole deployment.
| Property | Condition A (Ø 20-247.65 mm) | High Strength (Ø 20-210 mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.2% Yield Strength (MPa/ksi) | ≥ 380 (≥ 55) | ≥ 725 (≥ 105) |
| Tensile Strength (MPa/ksi) | ≥ 690 (≥ 100) | 850-1150 (120-165) |
| Elongation (L₀ = 4d) (%) | ≥ 35 | ≥ 20 |
| Reduction of Area (%) | ≥ 55 | ≥ 50 |
| Impact Toughness (J/ft-lbs) | ≥ 115 (≥ 110) | ≥ 80 (≥ 60) |
| Hardness (BHN/HRC) | ≥ 250 | 260-325 (26-35) |
Heat Treatment Guidelines
Proper heat treatment is critical to achieving the desired mechanical properties and maintaining the strict magnetic permeability limits of XM19. Solution annealing restores the fully austenitic structure, while stress relief mitigates machining-induced magnetic changes.
| Type | Temperature Range | Holding Time | Cooling Method | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solution Annealing | 1040 - 1093°C (1900 - 2000°F) | Based on cross-section | Water quench | Restore austenitic structure, maximize corrosion resistance |
| Strain-Hardening | Cold working at ambient temperatures | - | - | Achieve High Strength condition (Yield ≥ 725 MPa) |
| Stress Relief | 400 - 500°C | 1-2 hours per inch | Air cool | Reduce residual stresses without altering permeability |
Surface Finish and Machining Capabilities
SHUNFU METAL provides comprehensive surface finishing and precision machining for XM19 products. Rough surfaces are processed via turning and milling, achieving Ra 3.2-6.3 μm. For tighter dimensional tolerances, centerless grinding delivers a bright surface with Ra ≤ 0.8 μm.
To fulfill the stringent requirements of non-magnetic drill collars and MWD components, we apply CNC precision machining, BTA deep hole boring for seamless internal passages, and long-distance gunhole drilling. Roller burnishing and shot peening are available to enhance internal bore surface finish and fatigue life. Our advanced machining ensures strict dimensional accuracy and superior bore roughness, critical for downhole instrumentation deployment.
Quality Assurance and Inspection
SHUNFU METAL enforces rigorous quality control throughout pre-production, production, and post-production phases. Ultrasonic Testing (UT) per ASTM E2375 / API standards verifies internal soundness. We conduct comprehensive chemical composition analysis via PMI, mechanical property testing, and metallographic structure examination.
Corrosion resistance is strictly validated through ASTM A262 Practice A and E testing to ensure intergranular integrity, alongside PREN value verification. Material certification per EN 10204 3.1 is standard; 3.2 certification can be arranged upon request with third-party inspection by SGS or TÜV. All processes operate under our API Q1 and ISO 9001 certified quality management systems, guaranteeing full material traceability.
Packing and Shipping
Black skin XM19 bars and hollow billets are securely fastened with heavy-duty steel wire strapping, preventing any shifting or container damage during global transit. For bright surface and precision-machined MWD components, we employ multi-layer protective packaging—including VCI waterproof wraps and reinforced wooden cases—to meticulously preserve surface roughness and dimensional tolerances.
A comprehensive anti-rust oil coating is applied to all materials, ensuring zero oxidation throughout long-distance maritime shipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you supply XM19 to API specifications for drill collars?
Yes. Our XM19 fully complies with API specifications for drill collar applications and NACE requirements for sour service, supported by our API Q1 certified manufacturing processes and regular furnace calibrations.
What is the minimum order quantity for XM19 non-magnetic stainless steel?
We offer single-piece MOQ from our ready stock for standard sizes with a 7-day lead time. For custom forged or rolled requirements, the MOQ is typically 3 tons with a 30-day lead time.
What is the difference between Condition A and High Strength XM19?
Condition A is solution annealed, offering lower yield strength (≥ 380 MPa) but maximum ductility (≥ 35% elongation). High Strength undergoes strain-hardening, boosting yield strength to ≥ 725 MPa while retaining adequate ductility (≥ 20% elongation) for demanding downhole applications.
How do you ensure the non-magnetic properties of XM19 during processing?
We strictly control the chemical balance (particularly nitrogen and nickel) and utilize proper solution annealing to maintain a fully austenitic structure. Post-machining stress relief is also available to ensure permeability remains strictly below μ < 1.01.
Request a Quote for XM19
Secure your project's downhole integrity with certified XM19 non-magnetic stainless steel. Whether you require ready stock drill collar blanks or custom forged bars, our metallurgical team is ready to assist.
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