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The differences between Stainless Steel 304 and 316

Writer
STEELTOPIA
Date
23-10-23

Stainless Steel 304 vs 316 


Stainless corresponds to the English 'Stain-less,' signifying resistance to rust and corrosion, which is less compared to ordinary steel.

Stainless steel is a chromium-infused steel alloy known for its excellent corrosion resistance. The terms 'Corrosion Resistance' and 'Intergranular Corrosion' are concepts related to a metal or alloy's resistance to corrosion. 


This refers to the resistance to chemical reactions that occur when the surface of a metal comes into contact with substances such as oxygen, moisture, chlorine, chemical agents, and more. Intergranular corrosion is the phenomenon of corrosion occurring at the grain boundaries within the metal alloy, primarily resulting from the chemical composition and heat treatment processes of the metal alloy. Prolonged internal corrosion within the metal affects the material's durability and, consequently, the lifespan of the metal material. 


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Stainless steel is broadly categorized into several grades, among which Stainless Steel 304 and Stainless Steel 316 are the two most widely used grades.


 Stainless

 Chemical Composition

 Corrosion Resistance

 Use

 Cost

304

Cr 18-20% 

Ni  8-10.5%

 316 has higher corrosion resistance than 304, making it more effective in preventing corrosion, particularly in chloride-rich environments like marine or saltwater settings. Stainless Steel 316, with its higher molybdenum content, enhances resistance to chloride ions, reducing the risk of rust or corrosion

 Tableware, Kitchenware, Construction Materials, Automotive Components, Chemical Processing Equipment, etc.

 316, due to factors such as its molybdenum content, may have a higher production cost compared to 304. Therefore, for general purposes, 304 may be more cost-effective.

316 

Cr 16-18%

Ni 10-14%

Mo 2-3%

 Marine Environment, Chemical Processing Facilities, Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Medical Devices, Biotechnology Secto, etc.


Therefore, Stainless Steel 316 is primarily used in environments where high corrosion resistance and thermochemical resistance are required, while Stainless Steel 304 is widely used for general purposes. When choosing a product, it's advisable to select the appropriate grade that suits the usage environment and needs.


Today, we've explored the differences between Stainless Steel 304 and 316.

#Steeltopia is a direct importer of stainless steel, including Stainless Steel 304 and 316, offering pipes, round bars, and more at competitive prices. If you have any inquiries, feel free to leave them in the Request a Quote, and we will provide you with detailed answers.