![]() Nonetheless, as subtle as they may be, there are differences between the two 304 and 316 grades, with the one key difference that distinguishes one grade from another being the addition of molybdenum to the chemical composition of grade 316. Austenitic 304 and 316 stainless steels are well regarded for their hygienic properties and are considered food, surgical or medical-grade stainless steels. The material is non-magnetic, with exceptional heat and corrosion resistance, and formability and strength. They have relatively low levels of carbon and high levels of nickel and chromium-the latter provides a protective oxide layer to the surface of the material. Austenitic steels-those 200 and 300 series as categorized by the AISI/SAE grade system-are the most commonly used type of stainless steels. What further differentiates 304 and 316 grades are their classification as austenitic, a type of stainless steel which refers to a specific category of stainless steel derived from the material’s crystalline microstructure. There are over 100 grades of stainless steel, and 304 and 316 are but two of them. ![]() However, it is the amount and variety of alloying elements used that determine the grade and type of stainless steel. The steel can then be combined with other alloying elements such as nickel, manganese, silicon, nitrogen, titanium, molybdenum and more. In essence, stainless steels are low-carbon steel that consists of a minimum of at least 10.5% chromium, which gives the material its defining characteristic and corrosion resistance. Mainly because stainless steel does not specifically define a particular type of material, but broadly defines a class of iron-based alloys that give steel corrosion-resistant properties. Yet the term stainless steel can be somewhat confusing. Such material properties make stainless steel a top choice in the fabrication of parts and components for numerous applications and products. It’s no wonder-like all stainless steel grades-the material is easy to fabricate, clean, and maintain, and is exceptionally durable, environmentally friendly, and aesthetically pleasing. In fact, 304 and 316 are two of the most popular grades of stainless steel. ![]() Each has more properties in common than not-both have very good corrosion and heat resistance, strength, and excellent welding and forming properties. ![]() Indicatively, SS 304 can withstand temperatures to up to 925 degrees Celsius while maintaining enough strength and the same corrosion resistance properties.Home » News » Differences Between 304 vs 316 Stainless Steelĭifferences Between 304 vs 316 Stainless SteelĪt first glance, in comparing 304 vs 316 stainless steel, the lines between the two grades may seem fine. It will be no surprise to learn that it is the most popular stainless steel available today along with the superior grade, SS AISI 316. However, because chloride is usually only found in controlled environments and relatively low concentrations, SS 304 remains suitable for a very wide range of applications. These environments can cause corrosion cracking and general damage to the protective layers of the steel. The Achilles heel of SS AISI 304 is chloride environments and high temperatures (above 60 degrees Celsius). These include the aesthetically pleasing appearance, easiness in cleaning, relatively high-strength to weight ratio and high availability in many different forms. There are also additional reasons why 304 is used in the aforementioned sectors.
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