High Strength 317L Stainless Steel Sheet Corrosion & Heat Resistant Alloy

317L stainless steel is a highly versatile alloy known for its superior corrosion resistance, high strength, and heat resistance. It is widely used in industries that demand high-performance materials capable of withstanding harsh environments, such as chemical processing, marine applications, and food and pharmaceutical manufacturing. As a low-carbon version of 317 stainless steel, 317L offers enhanced weldability and resistance to intergranular corrosion, making it an ideal choice for applications requiring long-term durability and high resistance to corrosion, particularly in aggressive environments.

In this article, we will explore the properties, specifications, and applications of 317L stainless steel sheets, along with their various standards, parameters, and performance characteristics.

What is 317L Stainless Steel?

317L stainless steel is a low-carbon version of the 317 grade, an austenitic alloy that contains chromium, nickel, and molybdenum in its composition. The main difference between 317 and 317L is the reduced carbon content in 317L (≤ 0.03%), which helps to minimize carbide precipitation during welding and improves the material’s resistance to intergranular corrosion. This makes 317L stainless steel a better option for welding and high-temperature environments, where corrosion resistance is a priority.

The alloy composition of 317L stainless steel is as follows:

Key Properties of 317L Stainless Steel Sheet

317L stainless steel sheet is known for its combination of physical, mechanical, and chemical properties that make it suitable for demanding applications. These properties include:

1. Corrosion Resistance

One of the standout features of 317L stainless steel is its exceptional corrosion resistance. The alloy is resistant to:

• General corrosion: The high chromium content ensures the formation of a stable oxide layer that protects the material from rust and corrosion.

• Pitting and crevice corrosion: The addition of molybdenum enhances its resistance to localized corrosion, particularly in chloride-rich environments, such as seawater and acidic solutions.

• Stress corrosion cracking: 317L is highly resistant to stress corrosion cracking, a common issue in many industrial environments.

2. Heat Resistance

317L stainless steel can withstand high temperatures without losing its structural integrity, making it ideal for applications that involve exposure to heat. It is capable of operating in environments with continuous service temperatures up to 870°C (1600°F). This makes it suitable for use in:

• Heat exchangers.

• Furnaces and reactors.

• Boilers and welding equipment.

3. Mechanical Properties

• Tensile Strength: The alloy has a tensile strength of 515 MPa (75 ksi), which allows it to withstand significant mechanical stresses.

• Yield Strength: With a yield strength of 205 MPa (30 ksi), 317L offers good resistance to deformation under pressure.

• Ductility: This material is highly ductile, meaning it can be formed and welded into complex shapes without compromising its strength or corrosion resistance.

4. Weldability

Thanks to its low carbon content, 317L stainless steel exhibits excellent weldability, making it suitable for applications where the material will be subjected to welding, such as pipe systems, tanks, and structural components. The reduced carbon content minimizes the risk of carbide precipitation at the grain boundaries during welding, which could otherwise lead to intergranular corrosion.

5. Hygienic Properties

The smooth surface of 317L stainless steel makes it highly hygienic and easy to clean. This is a key requirement in industries like food processing, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology, where materials need to be thoroughly sanitized to meet health and safety standards.

Standards for 317L Stainless Steel

317L stainless steel sheets are manufactured according to several global standards, ensuring quality, consistency, and compliance with industry regulations. Some of the most commonly referenced standards include:

• ASTM A240: Standard specification for chromium and chromium-nickel stainless steel plate, sheet, and strip for pressure vessels and for general applications.

• ASTM A276: Standard specification for stainless steel bars and shapes.

• ASTM A312: Standard specification for seamless, welded, and heavily cold worked stainless steel pipe.

• UNS S31703: Unified Numbering System (UNS) for 317L stainless steel.

• EN 1.4435: The European standard designation for 317L stainless steel.

These standards define the material's composition, mechanical properties, and performance characteristics, ensuring that 317L stainless steel meets the stringent requirements of industries such as chemical processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and marine applications.

Specifications of 317L Stainless Steel Sheet

317L stainless steel is available in various sizes and thicknesses, making it adaptable to a wide range of applications. Below are typical specifications for 317L stainless steel sheets:

317L stainless steel sheets can also be custom cut, welded, and formed to meet the specific requirements of your application. Whether for tanks, pipes, or other industrial components, 317L stainless steel provides the durability and performance needed for long-term reliability.

Applications of 317L Stainless Steel Sheet

Given its corrosion resistance, strength, and heat resistance, 317L stainless steel sheets are used in a wide range of demanding applications, including:

1. Chemical Processing

• Tanks, vessels, and reactors for storing and processing chemicals.

• Pipes and piping systems for transporting chemicals, solvents, and acids.

• Heat exchangers used in chemical manufacturing processes.

2. Food and Pharmaceutical Processing

• Food processing equipment: Tanks, conveyors, and mixers exposed to acidic foodstuffs, oils, and cleaning agents.

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: Reactors, fermentation vessels, and storage tanks that must be resistant to contamination and easy to clean.

• Biotechnology equipment: Equipment used in fermentation, chemical synthesis, and other lab processes.

3. Marine Applications

• Marine components exposed to saltwater**: Components such as ship fittings, seawater intake systems, and offshore oil rig equipment, where resistance to seawater corrosion is vital.

• Marine heat exchangers and water tanks exposed to aggressive marine environments.

4. Power Generation and Oil & Gas Industries

• Boilers and pressure vessels used in power plants and petrochemical facilities.

• Heat exchangers used in oil refining and energy production systems.

5. Architectural and Decorative Applications

• Stainless steel facades and structural elements that require a high degree of corrosion resistance, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

Other Products in the 317L Stainless Steel Family

• 317L Stainless Steel Bar: Available in round, square, and hexagonal shapes for structural applications.

• 317L Stainless Steel Tube: Used for high-pressure systems, heat exchangers, and fluid transport in critical applications.

• 317L Stainless Steel Coil: Suitable for producing custom metal parts and components in industries requiring flexibility in design.

Conclusion

317L stainless steel sheet is a high-strength, corrosion-resistant alloy that is widely used across industries requiring durability and reliability. Its exceptional resistance to corrosion, particularly in chloride-rich environments, combined with its heat resistance and weldability, make it a preferred material in chemical processing, marine, food, and pharmaceutical applications. With its versatility, 317L stainless steel can be tailored to meet specific industry standards and performance requirements, ensuring long-lasting performance and safety in demanding environments