316 Stainless Steel Sheet Plate About
Grade 316 Stainless Steel is the second most common austenitic stainless steel grade widely known as marine grade stainless steel due to its exceptional resistance to cChemical Composition
Its superior corrosion resistance stems from the addition of molybdenum which differentiates it from standard 304 stainless steel Its typical chemical makeup consists of 1 2
Chromium 1618 Forms a passive selfhealing oxide layer that prevents rust
Nickel 1014 Enhances ductility toughness and provides an austenitic structure
Molybdenum 23 Dramatically increases resistance to localized pitting and crevice corrosion in chlorideheavy settings
Carbon Up to 008 Present in traces to maintain overall strength
Key Mechanical Physical Properties
Tensile Strength 515 MPa 84100 PSI
Yield Strength 205 MPa 42100 PSI
Hardness 79 Brinell Rockwell B
Magnetic Properties Nonmagnetic in its annealed state It can become slightly magnetic when coldworked
Heat Resistance Resists oxidation effectively up to 870C for intermittent service and 925C for continuous service 1 2 3 4 5 6
Common Variations Grades
316L Low Carbon Contains a maximum of 003 carbon This prevents carbide precipitation during welding removing the need for postweld annealing
316H High Carbon Features higher carbon content for elevated thermal stability and creep strength at temperatures exceeding 500C
316Ti TitaniumStabilised Includes titanium 05 to offer resistance to sensitization during prolonged highheat exposures 1 2 3 4 5 6
Primary Applications
Marine environments Boat fittings coastal structural hardware and underwater components
Chemical processing Refineries storage tanks piping and chemical containers
Medical Pharmaceuticals Surgical instruments medical implants and cleanroom equipment
Food Beverage processing Highsanitation preparation environments exposed to salts and acids