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About 316 Stainless Steel
AISI 316 (UNS S31600) is an austenitic stainless steel containing 16-18% chromium, 10-14% nickel, and 2-3% molybdenum. The addition of molybdenum is the key differentiator from 304 — it provides significantly improved resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, particularly in chloride-containing environments.
316 stainless steel is widely specified for marine, chemical processing, pharmaceutical, and food processing applications where corrosion resistance is critical. The low-carbon variant 316L (UNS S31603) is preferred for welded constructions to avoid sensitization.
Chemical Composition
Elemental Analysis
| Element | C | Mn | Si | Cr | Ni | Mo | P | S |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 316 Min | - | - | - | 16.0 | 10.0 | 2.0 | - | - |
| 316 Max | 0.08 | 2.0 | 0.75 | 18.0 | 14.0 | 3.0 | 0.045 | 0.03 |
| 316L Max | 0.03 | 2.0 | 0.75 | 18.0 | 14.0 | 3.0 | 0.045 | 0.03 |
Note: 316L has a maximum carbon content of 0.03% (vs 0.08% for 316), which prevents carbide precipitation during welding.
Mechanical Properties
Performance Data
Tensile Strength
≥515 MPa
Yield Strength
≥205 MPa
Elongation
≥40%
Hardness (HV)
≤200
Density
8.0 g/cm³
Melting Point
1371-1399°C
Advantages
Key Benefits of 316 SS
Superior Pitting Resistance
2-3% molybdenum provides 3-4x better pitting resistance than 304 in chloride environments (PREN 22-24).
Crevice Corrosion Resistance
Outperforms 304 in tight crevices where chlorides concentrate. Critical for flanged and gasketed connections.
High Temperature Strength
Maintains mechanical properties at elevated temperatures. Suitable for continuous service up to 870°C.
Applications
Where 316 SS is Used
Available Products
316 SS Wire Mesh Products
316 SS Wire Mesh
Marine grade woven wire mesh, 1-400 mesh
316L Filter Mesh
Sintered multi-layer, 1-500μm rating
316 Welded Mesh
Resistance welded, rigid panels
Comparison
316 vs 304 vs 316L
| Property | 304 | 316 | 316L |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cr (%) | 18-20 | 16-18 | 16-18 |
| Ni (%) | 8-10.5 | 10-14 | 10-14 |
| Mo (%) | - | 2-3 | 2-3 |
| C Max (%) | 0.08 | 0.08 | 0.03 |
| Pitting Resistance (PREN) | 18-20 | 22-24 | 22-24 |
| Weldability | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Relative Cost | Base | +15-20% | +18-25% |
FAQ
316 SS FAQ
Choose 316 when your application involves: chloride exposure (marine, coastal, de-icing salts), chemical processing with acids, pharmaceutical/food applications requiring enhanced hygiene, or any environment where pitting corrosion is a concern.
316L has a maximum carbon content of 0.03% vs 0.08% for standard 316. The lower carbon prevents carbide precipitation (sensitization) during welding, eliminating intergranular corrosion in the heat-affected zone. For welded constructions, always specify 316L.
Related Articles
Learn More
304 vs 316 Stainless Steel: Complete Guide
Side-by-side comparison of the two most common stainless steel grades for wire mesh.
The Role of Molybdenum in Stainless Steel
How 2-3% Mo transforms corrosion resistance in chloride environments.