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316 stainless steel is an austenitic stainless steel, the main components are chromium and nickel, and 2% molybdenum is added. The role of molybdenum is to enhance the corrosion resistance of stainless steel. Therefore, 316 stainless steel has better resistance to corrosive media such as seawater and salt water than 304 stainless steel. 316 steel is also known as SS316.
316 stainless steel contains about 2-3% molybdenum and other alloy elements. It is an upgraded product of 304 stainless steel. Ni, Cr, and MO elements are added to 304 stainless steel. It has a higher density than 304 and has better performance.
Stainless Steel 316, also called UNS S31600, is an austenitic chromium-nickel-molybdenum stainless steel, 1.4436 is a higher version of 1.4401, 1.4436 is a higher alloy of 1.4401. AISI 316 has very good stability against chloric media and non-oxidizing acids than ss 304, it is usally called marine grade stainless steel.
| Grade | C≤ | Mn≤ | P≤ | S≤ | Si≤ | Cr | Ni | Mo | N≤ |
| 316 | 0.08 | 2.0 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 0.75 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | 2.0-3.0 | 0.1 |
| Grade | Tensile, min, ksi[MPa] | Yield, min, ksi[MPa] | Elongation, %(min) | Hardness, HB（max） |
| 316 | 75【515】 | 30【205】 | 40 | 192 |
| STANDARD | WERKSTOFF NR. | UNS | JIS | BS | AFNOR | EN |
| 316 | 1.4401/1.4436 | S31600 | SUS316 | 316S31 / 316S33 | Z7CND17‐11‐02 | X5CrNiMo17-12-2/X3CrNiMo17-13-3 |
Corrosion Resistance: Excellent resistance to a wide range of chemicals and environments, significantly better than 304/304L, especially in dilute sulfuric, acetic, phosphoric, and formic acids.
Stress Corrosion Cracking: Susceptible to chloride-induced SCC at temperatures above approximately 60°C / 140°F. Not recommended for sustained stress in hot chloride environments.
Weldability: Excellent using all standard fusion methods TIG, MIG, SMAW, SAW. 316L is strongly preferred for welded fabrication to prevent sensitization. Post-weld annealing may be needed for maximum corrosion resistance in harsh service.
Formability: Easily deep drawn, stretch formed, spun, and bent. Higher strength and work hardening rate than carbon steel require more powerful equipment.
Magnetism: Essentially non-magnetic in the annealed state. It can become slightly magnetic due to cold working.
| Product | Standard | Show |
| Pipe SMLS & Welded | ASTM A312 |  |
| Tube SMLS & Welded | ASTM A269/213 |  |
| Sheet/Plate | ASTM A240 |  |
| Bar /Rod | ASTM A276/A479 |  |
| Forging /Flange | ASTM A182 |  |
| BW Fittings | ASTM A403 |  |
Chemical and petrochemical processing
Food and beverage processing
Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries
Water treatment plants and marine
Offshore applications
Is 316 stainless steel magnetic?
Usually, NO. It is mostly non-magnetic. After cutting or bending, it might show slight magnetism.
What is the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel?
316 has molybdenum (about 2-3%). 304 does not.
316 fights rust better, especially near salt or chemicals (like near the ocean).
304 costs less and works well for everyday items.
Does 316 stainless steel rust?
It resists rust very well, but it is not rust-proof.
It handles air and fresh water very well.
Long contact with salt, strong acids, or pollution can cause rust.
Regular cleaning helps prevent rust.
Is 316 stainless steel food grade?
Yes.
It is widely used for kitchen tools, food equipment, and food surfaces.
It resists corrosion and cleans easily.
It meets food safety rules (like FDA standards).
A product must also be made correctly to be truly "food grade".
