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Stainless Steel Alloy 316 | Product Properties, Composition & Machinability
Stainless steel alloy 316 is an austenitic stainless steel with a higher molybdenum content than alloy 304. This addition of molybdenum enhances its corrosion resistance, making it well-suited for use in aggressive environments containing chlorides or other corrosive agents. Stainless steel 316 is widely utilized in marine applications, chemical processing, and medical equipment due to its outstanding resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion. With 16-18% chromium, 10-14% nickel, and 2-3% molybdenum, alloy 316 exhibits excellent mechanical properties and weldability. Its superior performance in both high and low temperatures, coupled with its aesthetic appeal, makes it a popular choice in various industries where corrosion resistance and durability are paramount.
Product Properties
Chemical
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Alloying Elements
Chromium: Most important element of stainless steel. An addition of 10% chromium will form an oxide film (passive surface film) which renders the steel corrosion resistant. Chromium also increases resistance to scaling.
Nickel: Second most important element. It increases ductility, corrosion resistance, scaling resistance, and high-temperature strength.
Silicon: Primarily increases resistance to scaling.
Manganese: Improves hot-working properties.
Molybdenum: Increases corrosion and high-temperature strength.
Sulfur-Phosphorus-Selenium: Increases machinability.
Titanium or Columbium-Tantalum: Stabilizes carbon and prevents chromium-carbide precipitation and subsequent intergranular corrosion.
Mechanical
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Physical
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Fabrication
Machinability ratings must be recognized as approximate values. They are a reasonable guide to relative tool life and power required for cutting. Variables of speed, cutting oil, feed, and depth of cut will significantly affect these ratios.
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*Based on Bessemer Screw Stock No. B1112
Machinability ratings must be recognized as approximate values. They are a reasonable guide to relative tool life and power required for cutting. Variables of speed, cutting oil, feed, and depth of cut will significantly affect these ratios.
Disclaimer: The data listed here are recommended starting points. Higher speeds and feeds may be obtainable based on the working environment. Keep in mind that speeds and feeds should always be adjusted in small steps. When using carbide tools; surface speed can be increased 2 to 3 times over the suggested values; feeds can be increased between 50 and 100%.
Characteristics
Contains molybdenum for better corrosion resistance, particularly to pitting. Low carbon to avoid carbide precipitation in welding applications.
Typical Uses
Food and chemical processing equipment, heat exchangers, and boat fittings.
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