Views: 12 Author: Wang Publish Time: 2025-09-01 Origin: Site
Looking for super strong metal sheets that fight rust? 316 Stainless Steel Sheet is one of the best choices for tough jobs!
Why? Because it has a special ingredient called molybdenum. This makes it much better at handling salty air.
It also resists harsh chemicals. It holds up in hot temperatures. It performs well in wet places.
This is better than regular stainless steel. It's super strong, lasts a long time, and is easy to keep clean.
That's why it's used on boats, in factories making medicine or food, on buildings, and lots more. This guide covers all you need to know.
It explains why 316 is so good. It lists the types you can buy. It shares strength details and thickness sizes. It also covers cost and where to buy it.
As a leading maker of stainless steel and nickel alloy products, clients often ask why 316 stainless steel sheet is popular. The answer is its strong performance in demanding industrial environments. Here's why 316 SS sheet is our most requested and recommended product:
Corrosion Resistance: The critical addition of 2-3% molybdenum fundamentally elevates its performance beyond standard 304 stainless steel. Chlorides are present in coastal atmospheres, chemical processing environments, food production sanitation, pharmaceutical washdowns, and road de-icing salts. 316’s molybdenum helps form a stable passive layer. It gives excellent resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in harsh settings.
Robust Strength and Durability: 316 stainless steel screws maintain excellent mechanical properties across a wide range. Such as 316 stainless steel screws, which face not just corrosion but also stress, impact, and thermal cycling. 316 steel sheet has high tensile and yield strength with good toughness.
It keeps its strength better than 304 at high temperatures.
These temperatures occur in heat exchangers, exhaust systems, and process vessels.
Many Applications: Our 316 sheet reliably serves diverse industries:
Marine and Offshore: Hull linings, deck fittings, piping, and railings.
Chemical and Petrochemical Processing: Tanks, reactors, piping, ductwork.
Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology: Process vessels, piping, work surfaces.
Food and Beverage Processing: Tanks, conveyors, work surfaces, cookware.
Architecture and Construction: Cladding, roofing, fasteners, railings.
Surface Integrity and Hygiene: In food, pharma, and medical applications, preventing bacterial harborage is paramount. 316 sheet has smooth finishes like 316 2B, 316 BA, 316 #4, and 316 #8 mirror sheets.
These finishes are easy to clean, sterilize, and maintain for top sanitary standards.
This helps reduce contamination risk and supports regulatory compliance.
Excellent Fabrication Properties: 316 sheet has good formability, weldability, and machinability. This ensures efficient component manufacturing and complex assembly.
Aesthetic Longevity and Low Maintenance: 316 stainless steel sheet keeps its attractive metallic finish much longer than 304. It performs better in corrosive atmospheres. It needs less cleaning and polishing to keep its look.
This cuts lifecycle maintenance costs a lot. It costs less than lesser materials or painted carbon steel.
There are four types of 316 stainless steel plates. These include plain, perforated, polished, and color-coated 316 stainless steel plates.
Plain 316 Stainless Steel Sheet: It has a standard mill finish.
This is typically a cold-rolled, annealed, and pickled 2B surface.
It has a uniform, lightly reflective, matte grey appearance.
This product form provides the key molybdenum-enhanced corrosion resistance of 316 alloy.
316L steel offers better weldability due to its ultra-low carbon content.
This helps reduce sensitization and later intergranular corrosion. Plain 316 stainless steel sheet is a base material for fabrication in demanding industries.
These include chemical processing, marine equipment, pharmaceutical facilities, and food and beverage machinery.
Perforated 316 Stainless Steel Sheet: Made by punching or laser-cutting set hole patterns into a plain 316 sheet. Common holes are round, square, slotted, or custom shapes. This gives specific open area and hole spacing.
The metallurgical requirement for Perforated 316 Stainless Steel Sheet is clean, deburred hole edges.
This helps maintain the alloy’s pitting and crevice corrosion resistance.
Mechanical deformation during perforation can affect the passive layer locally. This type is mainly used for filtration, screening, and separation in harsh environments.
It is also used for facade panels and walkways that need drainage and ventilation. It is used for acoustic panels and security screens. Its controlled flow, strong structure, and corrosion resistance are key.
Polished 316 Stainless Steel Sheet: Made using step-by-step mechanical polishing.
This process reaches target surface roughness (Ra) values and a clean look.
Common finishes include #4, #6/#7, and #8. The polishing process enhances surface smoothness, significantly reducing micro-scale surface irregularities where corrosive agents or contaminants might initiate attack or adhere. It is vital that the polishing sequence keeps the near-surface layer intact.
It must avoid excess heat and prevent foreign particles from becoming embedded.
These issues could reduce corrosion resistance.
Colored 316 stainless steel sheet is made by adding a thin, durable ceramic or metal coating.
The coating is applied to a polished 316 sheet surface.
This is typically done using Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD).
Less often, it uses controlled thermal oxidation.
This creates stable, vibrant colors.
It does not change the sheet’s main mechanical properties.
It also keeps the core corrosion resistance.
The PVD process creates a hard, well-adhered, very thin layer.
This layer is chemically inert and UV-stable.
It provides long-lasting visual appeal for architectural cladding, decorative panels, signage, and premium consumer goods.
The coating also adds extra wear resistance.
The 316 stainless steel base provides strength and corrosion protection.
However, damage that exposes the base metal can cause localized corrosion.
This makes careful handling and installation important.
US316 Chemical Composition (%):
Grade | C | Mn | Si | P | S | Ni | Mo | Cr |
SUS316 | ≤0.08 | ≤2.00 | ≤1.00 | ≤0.045 | ≤0.03 | 10.00-14.00 | 2.00-3.00 | 16.00-18.00 |
SUS316 Physical Properties:
Properties | Value |
Density | 7.98 g/cm3 |
Melting point | 1375 - 1450 ℃ |
Solution treatment | 1010 ~1150℃ |
Alloy structure | Austenitic |
Resistivity | 73μΩ.cm |
Specific heat | 0.45 J/g.k |
Magnetic permeability | Non-magnetic |
316 Stainless Steel Mechanical properties
Tensile strength | ≥520 MPa |
Yield strength | ≥205MPa |
Elongation | ≥40% |
Reduction of area | ≥60% |
Hardness | ≤187HB，≤90HRB，≤200HV |
316 Minor Differences in Various Standards
NO. | Standard | Grade | Serial Number | C | Mn | P | S | Si | Cr | Ni | N | Mo |
1 | ASTM A276/A276M | 316 | S31600 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | - | 2.0-3.0 |
2 | ASTM A959 | 316 | S31600 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | - | 2.0-3.0 |
3 | ASTM A240/A240M | 316 | S31600 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 0.75 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | 0.1 | 2.0-3.0 |
4 | ASTM A182/A182M | F316 | S31600 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | 0.1 | 2.0-3.0 |
5 | ASTM A193/A193M | 316 | S31600 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | - | 2.0-3.0 |
6 | ASTM A269/A269M | TP316 | S31600 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | - | 2.0-3.0 |
7 | ASTM A312/A312M | TP316 | S31600 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | - | 2.0-3.0 |
8 | ASTM A320/A320M | 316 | S31600 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | - | 2.0-3.0 |
9 | ASTM A403/A403M | WP316 CR316 | S31600 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | - | 2.0-3.0 |
10 | ASTM A493 | 316 | S31600 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | 0.1 | 2.0-3.0 |
11 | ASTM A554 | MT-316 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | - | 2.0-3.0 | |
12 | JIS G4303:2012 | SUS316 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | - | 2.0-3.0 | |
13 | JIS G4304:2012 | SUS316 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | - | 2.0-3.0 | |
14 | JIS G4305:2012 | SUS316 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | - | 2.0-3.0 | |
15 | GB/T 20878-2007 | 06Cr17Ni12Mo2 | S31608 | 0.08 | 2 | 0.045 | 0.03 | 1 | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | - | 2.0-3.0 |
This is a detailed, industry-standard chart for 316 stainless steel sheet gauge thicknesses.
It follows the Brown & Sharpe, or American Standard Gauge, system.
This system is commonly used for stainless steel in North America.
Gauge (B&S) | Decimal Inch (in) | Millimeter (mm) | Approx. Weight (lb/ft²) | Approx. Weight (kg/m²) |
30 ga | 0.0125 | 0.32 | 0.51 | 2.49 |
28 ga | 0.0156 | 0.40 | 0.64 | 3.12 |
26 ga | 0.0187 | 0.47 | 0.76 | 3.71 |
24 ga | 0.0239 | 0.61 | 0.97 | 4.74 |
22 ga | 0.0299 | 0.76 | 1.22 | 5.96 |
20 ga | 0.0359 | 0.91 | 1.46 | 7.13 |
18 ga | 0.0478 | 1.21 | 1.95 | 9.52 |
16 ga | 0.0598 | 1.52 | 2.44 | 11.91 |
14 ga | 0.0747 | 1.90 | 3.05 | 14.89 |
13 ga | 0.0897 | 2.28 | 3.66 | 17.87 |
12 ga | 0.1046 | 2.66 | 4.27 | 20.85 |
11 ga | 0.1196 | 3.04 | 4.88 | 23.83 |
10 ga | 0.1345 | 3.42 | 5.49 | 26.81 |
9 ga | 0.1495 | 3.80 | 6.10 | 29.79 |
8 ga | 0.1644 | 4.18 | 6.71 | 32.77 |
0.1793 | 4.55 | 7.32 | 35.75 | |
6 ga | 0.1943 | 4.94 | 7.93 | 38.73 |
5 ga | 0.2092 | 5.31 | 8.54 | 41.71 |
4 ga | 0.2242 | 5.69 | 9.15 | 44.69 |
3 ga | 0.2391 | 6.07 | 9.76 | 47.67 |
Note: Gauge numbers are not absolute and vary between material types, remember always verify with specific mill certifications.
316 stainless steel sheet price changes are based on many things. Expect to pay more than regular steel and usually more than the common 304 stainless steel. As of late 2023/early 2024, basic 316 sheets might start around 4 to 8 per pound, but this is just a rough starting point. The real price you pay depends heavily on several key factors:
The biggest factor is the cost of the raw materials, especially nickel (Ni) and molybdenum (Mo). These metals are expensive, and their prices jump around daily on the world market. When nickel and molybdenum prices go up, so does the price of 316 stainless.
The second factor is thickness. Thicker sheets use more metal, so they cost more. Think of buying a thick book versus a thin pamphlet; more pages means a higher price. Also, very wide sheets or special sizes can cost extra because they are harder for the factory to make.
The third factor is the manufacturing process. For example, 316 stainless steel 2B sheet is the least expensive type. A mirror finish costs much more than a 2B sheet.
And steel factories usually give lower prices per pound if you buy a large amount. Buying just one small sheet will cost more per pound.
Finally, shipping costs add to the price, especially for heavy sheets. Also, like many things, prices tend to slowly go up over time due to inflation.
316 stainless steel sheet price list
Type | Thickness | Finish | Price Range (USD/lb) |
Plain 316 (2B Finish) | 16 Gauge (0.0598") | Matte, unpolished | 4.50–4.50–6.00 |
1/8" (0.125") | Matte, unpolished | 4.75–4.75–6.25 | |
Polished 316 | 16 Gauge (0.0598") | #4 Brushed | 5.50–5.50–7.50 |
1/8" (0.125") | #8 Mirror | 8.00–8.00–12.00+ | |
Perforated 316 | 16 Gauge (0.0598") | 2B (pre-perf) | 6.00–6.00–9.00+ |
316L (Low Carbon) | Any thickness | Any finish | +0.20–0.20–0.50/lb |
Big Metal Companies (Best for Large Orders):
If you need many sheets, like hundreds or thousands of pounds, buy directly from large metal factories.
These factories are called mills, like Zhengzhou Huitong or JN Alloy.
You can also buy from large sellers called distributors, like Ryerson or Reliance Steel.
These companies sell thick sheets, thin sheets, or even giant rolls. They give you official papers called "MTRs" that prove the steel is real 316. Prices here are cheaper for big orders, but you usually need to buy a lot at once.
Local Metal Stores or Websites (Best for Small Orders):
If you only need one sheet or a few small pieces, visit a local metal shop. Try Metal Supermarkets or Industrial Metal Supply. You can also order online from McMaster-Carr or OnlineMetals. These places cut sheets to your exact size.
You can walk into their stores, call them, or order from their websites. They ship quickly, but the price per piece is higher than buying in bulk. Always ask if they have the "MTR" paper for the steel.
Special Sellers (For Unique Needs):
If you need special finishes, like a shiny mirror polish (#8) or brushed metal (#4), JN or Huitong can help.
They also supply perforated sheets and colored sheets. They make these custom sheets but may take longer to deliver. Check their websites or call them to ask about your project.
Recommended Websites:
Huitong:https://htpipe.com/
Ryerson: https://www.ryerson.com/
Reliance Steel: https://reliance.com/
