Surface Treatments for 316 Stainless Steel

Although steel is a reliable material, not all steel is created equally. Depending on what you need the metal for, you must choose between different types, which usually vary based on the metal’s chemical composition. 

For most applications, 316 stainless steel is a fantastic choice. However, you can ensure that the material will work perfectly for your situation by looking at the different surface treatments available. These treatments enhance the durability and versatility of the metal, making it ideal for specific environments. 

To help you make the smartest choice for your business, let’s break down the various surface treatments for 316 stainless steel and how they can work for your needs. 

What is 316 Stainless Steel?

316 stainless steel is a high-performance material that includes chromium and molybdenum. These additives help make 316 stainless steel a corrosion-resistant and ultra-durable metal. This material’s Brinell hardness is 290 BHN, and it can withstand heat up to 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Overall, 316 is highly versatile for most needs, but once it undergoes surface treatments, it can be deployed in various industrial and commercial applications. 

Common Surface Treatments for 316 Stainless Steel

Mechanical Surface Finishes

Just because 316 stainless steel is tough and durable doesn’t mean it has to look boring and drab. Mechanical surface finishes are designed to enhance the metal’s appearance. For example, a brushed finish gives a uniform grain pattern and removes surface imperfections. 

Alternatively, a polished finish makes the metal shinier. These finishes are typically deployed in industries where the metal is used in customer-facing operations, like food service or healthcare. A polished finish is also important when dimensional accuracy or precision fit is required such as in bearing applications.

Passivation of Stainless Steel

Even though a sheet of 316 stainless steel may look smooth and uniform with the naked eye, it may be full of slight imperfections and erroneous compounds. Passivation is the process of immersing the metal in an acidic solution, usually citric or nitric acid.

The acid helps remove these imperfections and ensures the surface is free of contaminants and iron compounds. Removing these components makes the metal much more corrosion-resistant, even when exposed to the harshest elements (i.e., marine applications). 

Electropolishing of Stainless Steel

Electropolishing is a slightly more refined version of passivation. The metal is immersed in an electrolyte solution, and then an electric current is passed through the liquid. Electroplating removes all surface contaminants and ensures a smoother, shinier surface. This process is a bit more expensive but yields far better results. 

Typically, electroplating 316 stainless steel is best for applications where the metal will come into contact with biological elements. This makes it perfect for food service and healthcare equipment, where pathogens and other particles must be cleaned off regularly. 

Bead Blasting

If you need your 316 stainless steel to have an even, uniform, matte texture, bead blasting is the best option. Tiny glass beads are blasted over the surface, removing imperfections and creating a mildly textured material. This option is best when you want to avoid reflective surfaces. 

Etching

Sometimes, you may need to mark your steel with your brand name or manufacturing ID number. Etching allows you to create intricate patterns within the metal so they won’t accidentally rub off. Typically, etching is done by applying acids or other chemicals that remove some surface material. 

Why Should You Invest in Surface Treatments for 316 Stainless Steel?

It’s essential to consider these factors when choosing a surface treatment: 

• Appearance: Will your steel components or equipment be visible to customers or clients? Do you want pieces that will look shiny and polished for years? 

If so, electroplating and polished finishes can greatly enhance the appearance of your steel. Conversely, you may prefer a softer, matte finish if you’re using stainless steel for more industrial applications (e.g., oil and gas mining). 

• Environmental Corrosion: Stainless steel is already highly regarded for its corrosion resistance, but surface treatments can make the material even better at withstanding the elements. 

For example, marine environments are terrible for metals, as the saltwater can cause rusting and brittleness. Surface treatments can extend the material’s lifespan and ensure it works more reliably. 

• Cost Effectiveness: As a rule, surface treatments of 316 stainless steel are more expensive than just buying the material as-is. However, you must consider whether the upfront investment is worth the long-term benefits.

Typically, spending a little more to improve the corrosion resistance of this material will help you save money on replacement parts and materials later on. 

• Cleaning and Maintenance: Some industries focus more on cleanliness than others. For example, when stainless steel is used for food service equipment, workers must be able to clean surfaces quickly and effectively to prevent the spread of bacteria. Some surface treatments make it much harder for pathogens to remain on the metal. 

Get Your Treated 316 Stainless Steel Now

At Specialty Steel, we understand that you need the best materials at the best prices the first time. You can’t afford to shop around for different metals or replace subpar materials that will break down. 

We offer traceability of all of our metals, so you can see exactly where they came from and whether they are high-quality. Our customer service reps are here to help you find what you need, no matter the situation or application. 

If you need help determining which surface treatments will work best for your business, we can answer your questions and guide you to the right options. Contact us today. We also offer customized sizing for rods and plates, saving you time and money on machining your pieces.