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Differentiating 304 & 316 Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a highly sought-after and versatile metal alloy known for providing numerous advantages across a wide range of applications worldwide. Both 304 and 316 grades offer excellent corrosion resistance, which is among the best in the metal industry. These grades possess distinct properties that allow them to be used in both similar and unique industrial applications.

What is Stainless Steel?

As one of the most well-recognized metals, stainless steel is renowned for its aesthetic appeal, low maintenance requirements, and resistance to corrosion and staining. Unlike carbon steel, stainless steel does not corrode readily when exposed to water. This makes it an ideal choice when both strength and corrosion resistance are required. Stainless steel must contain at least 10% chromium by weight to qualify as stainless.

High Performance 316 Stainless Steel

Premium grade 316 stainless steel is composed of iron with added elements such as chromium, nickel, silicon, manganese, carbon, and molybdenum. The inclusion of molybdenum allows 316 stainless steel to offer superior corrosion resistance, especially against acids and chlorides, making it ideal for marine applications.

• Increased corrosion resistance over 304
• Good strength at high temperatures
• Good resistance to pitting in chloride ion solutions
• Effective in acidic environments
• Enhanced long-term value

• Foodservice equipment
• Medical equipment & devices
• Marine environment structural steel
• High alkali & acid environments
• Coastal regions
• Commercial kitchen surfaces

Stainless Steel 316 Chemical Composition

The chemical composition of 316 stainless steel includes:

Austenitic 304 Stainless Steel

304 stainless steel is the most common form of austenitic stainless steel, featuring a mixture of nickel and chromium that affords excellent corrosion resistance. It is effortless to sanitize, making it ideal for numerous applications in the food production industry. Known as 18-8 stainless steel, 304 contains at least 18% chromium and 8% nickel and is available in various forms that are easy to fabricate.

• Excellent corrosion resistance
• Resists organic chemicals
• Impact-resistant
• Enhanced aesthetic value
• Easily recyclable

• Appliances
• Storage tanks
• Indoor electrical enclosures
• Kitchen equipment
• Automotive trim

Stainless Steel 304 Chemical Composition

The chemical composition of 304 stainless steel includes:

The key difference between grade 304 and grade 316 stainless steel lies in their composition; 316 contains more nickel and a bit of molybdenum. Although their general mechanical properties are comparable, the following table outlines some of their most valuable characteristics:

316 vs 304 Stainless Steel Chemical Resistance Qualities

The high nickel content and inclusion of molybdenum in grade 316 stainless steel provide better chemical resistance than 304. Its ability to resist acids and chlorides, including salt, makes grade 316 ideal for chemical processing and marine applications.

Differentiating the Melting Points of 316 & 304 Stainless Steel

The melting point of grade 304 stainless steel is slightly higher than that of grade 316. The melting range for 316 is between 2,500°F – 2,550°F (1,371°C – 1,399°C), which is about 50 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit lower than that of grade 304 stainless steel.

Stainless Steel 304 & 316 Machining Qualities

Grade 304 stainless steel is easier to machine than grade 316 due to its lower cost and ease of fabrication. As a result, 304 is the most widely used austenitic stainless steel globally. Special tools are necessary to machine grade 316 properly, often limiting its use to applications that require its specific properties.

Does Stainless Steel Rust?

Stainless steel does not rust due to its chemical nature and self-healing capabilities. The elements within stainless steel interact with the oxygen in the air to form a protective layer that prevents rust. Since type 316 stainless steel contains molybdenum, it offers superior corrosion resistance compared to type 304.

316 Stainless Steel vs 304 Stainless Steel: Which Should You Choose?

Although stainless steel 304 has a higher melting point, grade 316 offers better resistance to chemicals and chlorides (such as salt). For applications involving chlorinated solutions or salt exposure, grade 316 is considered superior. While 316 is regarded as the better alloy, it comes at a higher price point and offers performance advantages that may or may not justify the additional cost, depending on your application requirements.

Contact us for more information regarding our high-quality 316 and 304 stainless steel product options, or request a quote for detailed pricing information today. We are your trusted source for premium 316 and 304 stainless steel materials.

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