316 Stainless Steel: Properties, Applications, and Variants
316 stainless steel is a high-performance austenitic alloy, recognized for its exceptional corrosion resistance, strength, and durability. It is a preferred choice for applications in harsh environments where exposure to chemicals, saltwater, and high temperatures is common. At Specialty Steel, we provide high-quality 316L stainless steel, turned, ground, and polished (TGP) shafting, meeting stringent ISO quality standards.
316 Stainless Steel Offerings
Specialty Steel provides dual-certified 316/316L stainless steel in various sizes, including TG&P shafting, to meet specific project requirements. Our SS 316 material properties meet ISO quality standards, ensuring high reliability.
Key Properties of 316, 316L and T316L Stainless Steel
Corrosion Resistance: The addition of molybdenum (2-3%) enhances resistance to pitting and corrosion, particularly in chloride-rich environments like marine and chemical settings.
Heat Resistance: 316 stainless steel maintains structural integrity at high service temperatures up to 1,400°F, making it suitable for demanding industrial applications.
Durability: With a tensile strength of 80,000 PSI, this steel offers remarkable toughness and wear resistance, ideal for heavy-duty applications such as TGP shafting.
Low Carbon Content (316L): Reduced carbon minimizes carbide precipitation during welding, improving corrosion resistance in welded components
Typical Mechanical Properties
- Brinell Hardness – 290 BHN Max
- Tensile Strength – 94,000 psi min
- Yield Strength – 65,000 psi min
Available Lengths
11/13 FT R/L
316 Stainless Steel Features Applications, Properties and Chemical Composition:
- Key Features: Contains up to 0.08% carbon, offering excellent tensile strength and corrosion resistance. The addition of 2-3% molybdenum enhances resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion.
- Applications: Commonly used in chemical processing, marine environments, and structural components exposed to harsh conditions.
Chemical Composition of 316 Stainless Steel
| C | Mn | Si | P | S | Cr | Mo | Ni |
| .08 max | .2.00 max | 1.00 max | .045 max | .030 max | 16.00-18.00 | 2.00-3.00 | 10.00-14.00 |
316L Stainless Steel Features, Applications and Chemical Composition:
- Key Features: A low-carbon variant of 316 stainless steel, with a maximum carbon content of 0.03%, reducing carbide precipitation during welding. This ensures superior corrosion resistance in welded areas.
- Applications: Ideal for heavy gauge components, pharmaceutical processing, and equipment requiring extensive welding.
Chemical Composition of 316L Stainless Steel
| C | Mn | Si | P | S | Cr | Ni |
| .03 max | .2.00 | 1.00 max | .045 max | .030 max | 16.00-18.100 | 2.00-3.00 |
T316L Stainless Steel Features Features Properties:
- Key Features: Combines the low-carbon benefits of 316L stainless steel with additional turning, grinding, and polishing (TG&P) processes. This results in a polished surface, tighter dimensional tolerances, and enhanced wear resistance.
- Applications: Perfect for hydraulic and pneumatic shafting, marine equipment, medical devices, and precision components requiring a smooth finish and exact measurements.
Common Industry Utilization and Applications
Foodservice Equipment: Commonly used in prep stations, sinks, and cooking surfaces for its corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning.
Marine Operations: Ideal for offshore structures and components exposed to saltwater due to its superior resistance to pitting and rust.
Chemical Processing: Suitable for tanks, piping, and equipment in chemical plants and refineries where resistance to acids and corrosive materials is crucial.
Medical Devices: Used for surgical instruments and equipment due to its biocompatibility and sterilization properties.
Precision Machinery: Frequently employed in T316L stainless steel TG&P shafting for high-performance applications requiring precision and durability.
Stainless Steel Rounds (Inches)
| 3/4 | 1-7/16 | 2-1/2 | 4-1/2 |
| 7/8 | 1-1/2 | 2-3/4 | 4-15/16 |
| 15/16 | 1-3/4 | 2-15/16 | 5 |
| 1 | 1-15/16 | 3 | |
| 1-1/8 | 2 | 3-7/16 | |
| 1-3/16 | 4-7/16 | 3-1/2 | |
| 1-1/4 | 2-3/16 | 3-15/16 | |
| 1-5/16 | 2-1/4 | 4 | |
| 1-3/8 | 2-7/16 | 4-7/16 |
Ordering, Availability, and Quality Assurance
Specialty Steel offers high-quality 316L stainless steel, including TG&P shafting, rigorously tested to meet ISO standards. Our stainless steel is fully traceable, ensuring the highest level of craftsmanship. We offer custom cutting services and extensive stock, allowing you to order precisely what you need for your project.
Contact us today to request a quote and experience our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
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