316L stainless steel is a low-carbon variant of the 316 austenitic stainless steel grade, distinguished by its enhanced corrosion resistance—especially against chloride environments. It belongs to the "18-10-2" stainless steel family, with molybdenum as a key alloying element that sets it apart from common grades like 304.
1. Core Parameters
Its composition and properties make it ideal for harsh or precision-focused applications:
| Parameter Type | Key Specifications |
|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | - Chromium (Cr): 16.0% – 18.0% (forms protective oxide layer) - Nickel (Ni): 10.0% – 14.0% (stabilizes austenitic structure) - Molybdenum (Mo): 2.0% – 3.0% (boosts chloride corrosion resistance) - Carbon (C): ≤ 0.03% (low carbon, minimizes intergranular corrosion after welding) - Other: Mn ≤ 2.0%, Si ≤ 1.0%, P ≤ 0.045%, S ≤ 0.030% |
| Mechanical Properties | - Tensile Strength: ≥ 485 MPa - Yield Strength (0.2% offset): ≥ 170 MPa - Elongation (in 50mm): ≥ 40% - Hardness: ≤ 210 HB (Brinell), ≤ 95 HRB (Rockwell B) |
| Physical Traits | - Density: ~7.98 g/cm³ - Melting Point: 1375–1450°C - Magnetic Behavior: Non-magnetic (annealed state) |
2. Key Standards for Products
Global standards ensure consistency across its common forms, with a focus on corrosion resistance and safety:
| Product Form | Major Global Standards |
|---|---|
| Plates/Sheets/Coils | ASTM A240 (U.S.), EN 10088-2 (EU), JIS G4305 (Japan), GB/T 3280 (China) |
| Pipes/Tubes | ASTM A312 (pressure systems), EN 10216-5 (seamless), JIS G3459 (industrial tubes) |
| Bars/Wires | ASTM A276 (bars/rods), EN 10088-3 (bars), JIS G4303 (precision bars) |
| Food/Medical Use | FDA 21 CFR §177.2600 (U.S.), EU Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004, ISO 10993 (medical biocompatibility) |
3. Typical Applications
Its superior chloride resistance and low carbon content make it indispensable for demanding environments:
- Marine & Coastal Industries: Ship hull components, offshore platforms, and coastal architectural parts (resists saltwater corrosion).
- Medical Field: Surgical instruments, implantable devices (e.g., orthopedic screws), and laboratory equipment (biocompatible and easy to sterilize).
- Chemical & Pharmaceutical: Storage tanks for acids (e.g., sulfuric acid), chemical pipelines, and pharmaceutical processing machinery (resists harsh reagents).
- Food Processing (Harsh Environments): Seafood processing equipment and high-moisture food facilities (withstands frequent cleaning with chloride-based detergents).
