What is Stainless Steel 316?
Type 316 steel is an austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steel that contains between 2 to 3% molybdenum. The molybdenum content increases corrosion resistance, improves resistance to pitting in chloride ion solutions, and increases strength at high temperatures.
Alloy 316 is particularly effective in acidic environments. This grade of steel is effective in protecting against corrosion caused by sulfuric, hydrochloric, acetic, formic, and tartaric acids, as well as acid sulfates and alkaline chlorides.
|
Chemical Composition |
|
|
Carbon (C) |
0.08 |
|
Manganese (Mn) |
2.00 |
|
Phosphorus (P) |
0.045 |
|
Sulphur (S) |
0.03 |
|
Silicon (Si) |
0.75 |
|
Chromium (Cr) |
16.00 – 18.00 |
|
Nickel (Ni) |
10.00 – 14.00 |
|
Nitrogen (N) |
0.10 |
|
Molybdenum (Mo) |
2.00 – 3.00 |
|
Iron (Fe) |
Balance |
Southern Tool is a 316 stainless steel supplier and our inventory is available in a variety of forms, including:
- Round bar
- Square bar
- Sheet
- Flat bar
- Plate
Our Stainless Steel 316 meets the following standards: ASTM A240, A276 and A479 and QQ-S-763
Typical Applications for 316 Stainless Steel:
While typically regarded as the standard marine grade stainless steel. Other common uses for stainless steel 316 include:
- Exhaust manifolds
- Furnace parts
- Heat exchangers
- Jet engine parts
- Pharmaceutical and photographic equipment
- Valve and pump parts
- Chemical processing equipment
- Tanks
- Textile processing equipment
Stainless steel 316 has excellent weldability by all standard fusion methods, both with and without filler metals.
Finally, Alloy 316 is often the preferred choice in situations when:
- The environment includes a high number of corrosive elements.
- The material will be placed underwater or be exposed to water consistently.
- In applications where greater strength and hardness are required.
Heat Treatment
Stainless Steel 316 is not able to be hardened by heat treatment. Its annealing range is between 1850° - 2050° F, followed by rapid cooling. Water should be used for heavier sections; air for lighter sections. The stress relieving range is between 400° and 750°F. Cold working helps to increase tensile strength and hardness.
At Southern Tool Steel, we are committed to providing you best-in-class service. Our broad range of quality materials is available for distribution nationwide with no minimum order required. We are here for you as your 316 Stainless Steel Sheet Supplier and 316 Pipe, Tube & Bar Distributor.
Contact our service team today for more information or to discuss your specific needs.