Stainless steel ("SS" for short) is a special form of steel which contains chromium, and offers a greater resistance to tarnishing and rust.The influence of permanent magnets on stainless steel varies greatly, depending on the material. There are three broad families of stainless steel, classified according to their crystalline structure. Here, we discuss the magnetic properies of these materials..."AUSTENITIC" Stainless SteelAustenitic (known as 200 and 300 series) SS is the most popular type of stainless steel, accounting for 70% of all stainless steels. Austenitic SS is a general purpose material, with good corrosion resistence. This material is PARAMAGNETIC / NON-MAGNETIC. Magnets will not attract austenitic stainless steel.Examples: Type 201, 202, 302, 303, 304, 316 and 316L"FERRITIC" Stainless SteelFerritic SS is a less expensive material with better engineering properties that austenitic SS, but has a reduced resistance to corrosion. This material is FERROMAGNETIC. Magnets will attract ferritic stainless steel.Examples: Type 430F Solenoid Quality, Type 430FR Solenoid Quality, and Type 446"MARTENSITIC" Stainless SteelMartensitic SS has a very low resistence to corrosion in comparison to Austenitic & Ferritic SS. Martensitic steel, however, is is extremely strong and tough; the material can be hardened by heat treatment, and is highly machinable. This material is FERROMAGNETIC. Magnets will attract martensitic stainless steel.Examples: Type 410, 416, 420, 440B and 17-4