316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel is known for its exceptional resistance to corrosion. It is an austenitic grade, which means it has a non-magnetic microstructure. It is considered the second most important grade after 304 in terms of commercial importance.
316 Stainless Steel
316 Stainless steel is second only to Type 304 in total global steel production.
Type 316 is a type of stainless steel that is similar to Type 304 in terms of its physical and mechanical properties. Both types have the same material makeup, with the main difference being the addition of 2 to 3 percent molybdenum in Type 316. This small but significant addition gives 316 stainless steel enhanced corrosion resistance, especially in environments that contain chlorides and other industrial solvents.
This also makes it more resistant to pitting and crevice corrosion, which are common forms of corrosion in environments that contain chlorides. This makes it ideal for use in marine environments, as well as for applications that involve exposure to harsh chemicals or high temperatures. In addition, Type 316 has good formability and weldability properties, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
We can supply Type 316 in a variety of forms including sheets, plates, bars, and angles. If you’re in need of Type 316 stainless steel, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for the best prices.
316 Stainless Steel Properties and Specifications
316 is an austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steel that contains molybdenum as an alloying element. The addition of molybdenum improves the steel’s overall corrosion resistance, resistance to pitting, and strength at elevated temperatures. The molybdenum content in the alloy provides improved resistance to chloride-ion stress-corrosion cracking, which is a common form of corrosion in environments such as marine, chemical processing, and oil and gas production.
This makes it ideal for applications that require high corrosion resistance, such as marine equipment, chemical processing, and oil and gas production.
The following specifications are generally applicable to Type 316 :
Sheets and Plates
- MIL-S-5059
- ASTM A 167
- ASTM A 240
- QQ-S-76
Bars and Angles
- MIL-S-7720
- AMS 5648
- QQ-S-763
- ASTM A 276
- ASTM A 479
- Widely used in a variety of applications requiring superior corrosion resistance or good elevated temperature strength.
- Applications include valve parts, pumps, tanks, evaporators and agitators, textile processing equipment, and a wide variety of parts exposed to marine atmospheres.
- Type 316 L is used extensively for weldments where its immunity to carbide precipitation due to welding assures optimum corrosion resistance
316L Stainless Steel
- Extra-low carbon version of Type 316 that eliminates harmful carbide precipitation due to welding
What is 316 Stainless Steel?
316 stainless steel is a type of alloy steel that contains chromium, nickel, and molybdenum. The addition of molybdenum improves the steel’s overall corrosion resistance, resistance to pitting, and strength at elevated temperatures. The molybdenum content in the alloy provides improved resistance to chloride-ion stress-corrosion cracking, which is a common form of corrosion in environments such as marine, chemical processing and oil and gas production. Additionally, it provides resistance to reducing acids and other harsh chemicals.
It is often used in marine equipment, chemical processing, and oil and gas production, as well as other applications where high corrosion resistance is required. It has a similar composition to Type 304 stainless steel, but has a higher yield strength and tensile strength at elevated temperatures. It also has a better resistance to creep and stress-rupture at high temperatures. Furthermore, it is non-magnetic and suitable for cryogenic applications.
Additionally, Type 316 has good formability and weldability properties, making it suitable for a wide range of applications such as pressure vessels, chemical storage tanks and heat exchangers. It’s also used in construction, architectural and industrial applications, where high corrosion resistance is required.
History of 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel was first developed in the early 1900s by the German metallurgist Hans Goldschmidt. The original composition of 316 stainless steel was 18% chromium and 12% nickel. It was later improved in the 1930s by adding molybdenum, which increased its resistance to corrosion.
The addition of molybdenum improved the steel’s overall corrosion resistance, resistance to pitting, and strength at elevated temperatures. In the 1940s, 316 stainless steel began to be widely used in the United States for applications in the chemical and petroleum industries.
It was also used in the construction of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri. Due to its high corrosion resistance and strength, it was used in many other applications such as marine equipment, chemical processing, and oil and gas production.
Additionally, it is often used in architecture and construction, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and medical equipment.
Today, it is considered one of the most popular grades of stainless steel due to its versatility and durability. Furthermore, it has good formability and weldability properties, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Applications for 304 Stainless Steel
Today, 316 stainless steel is widely used in various industries, including marine, chemical processing, and oil and gas production, as well as other applications where high corrosion resistance is required.
Marine Equipment
316 steel is also used in marine infrastructure such as piers, bridges, and seawalls. Its excellent resistance to corrosion in salt water environments makes it a popular choice for marine equipment manufacturers.
Chemical Processing
Its excellent corrosion and high temperature resistance makes it suitable for use in harsh chemical environments, such as those found in the chemical and petrochemical industries.
Oil and Gas
Type 316s excellent corrosion resistance makes it suitable for use in extremely harsh environments such as offshore oil and gas production platforms.
Food Processing
The fact that 316 stainless steel has non-reactivity with food and its ability to withstand high temperatures make it a popular choice for use in food processing equipment.
Medical Equipment
Its non-toxicity and ability to withstand sterilization makes it a popular choice for use in medical equipment and implants.
Pharmaceuticals
These properties make it a popular choice for use in pharmaceutical processing equipment.
Architecture
A popular choice for use in architectural applications, particularly in coastal environments.
Automotive
Used in automotive applications; high-performance vehicles and in vehicles that will be exposed to harsh conditions.
316 Stainless Steel Composition & Properties
Property
Type 316%
Type 316L%
Carbon
.08 max
.03 max
Manganese
2.00 max
2.00 max
Phosphorus
.045 max
.045 max
Sulfur
.030 max
.030 max
Silicon
1.00 max
1.00 max
Chromium
16.0 – 18.0
16.0 – 18.0
Nickel
10.0 – 14.0
10.0 – 14.0
Molybdenum
2.0 – 3.0
2.0 – 3.0
Mechanical Properties
Property
Type 316 Annealed
Type 316L%
Ultimate Tensile Strength, psi
85,000
75,000
.2% Yield Strength, psi
35,000
30,000
Elongation, % in 2?
50-60
50 – 55
Reduction of area, %
70
65
Rockwell Hardness
B80
B75
Endurance Limit, psi
38,000
NA
Izod Impact, ft-lbs
95 – 120
NA
