Stainless Steel, Austenitic
316L Stainless Steel Bar & Tube Sheet
Low carbon chromium-nickel-molybdenum austenitic stainless steel.
316L, the low carbon version of 316 stainless steel, is immune to grain boundary carbide precipitation (sensitisation). This makes it suited to use in heavy gauge (over about 6mm) welded components.
Stainless steel types 1.4401 and 1.4404 are also known as grades 316 and 316L respectively. Grade 316 is an austenitic grade second only to 304 in commercial importance. 316 stainless steel contains an addition of molybdenum that gives it improved corrosion resistance. This is particularly apparent for pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride environments.The austenitic structure of 316 stainless steel gives excellent toughness, even at cryogenic temperatures.
Property data given in this document is typical for bar and section products covered by EN standards. ASTM, EN or other standards may cover all products sold. It is reasonable to expect specifications in these standards to be similar but not necessarily identical to those given in this datasheet.
Quarto Plate is hot rolled plate over 12mm thick that has not been coiled during production. CPP is continuously produced plate up to 12mm thick that has been coiled during rolling. Sheet is cold rolled.
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Range
316L Bar & Tube
| Product Form | Imperial Sizes | Metric Sizes |
| Round Bar Bright Drawn H9 | 1⁄8" - 1" | 3mm - 25mm |
| Round Bar Smooth Turned H9/H10 | 7⁄8" - 3" | 25mm - 75mm |
| Round Bar Peeeled K12/K16 | 3" - 16" | 80mm - 340mm |
| Hexagon Bar | 0.25" - 2.75" | - |
| Flat Bar - Hot Rolled | - | 20mm x 10mm - 100mm x 25mm |
| Flat Bar - Rolled Edge | - | 12mm x 3mm - 100mm x 12mm |
| Square Bar | - | 12mm x 12mm - 50mm x 50mm |
| Angle | - | 20 x 20 x 3mm - 100 x 100 x 10mm |
| Welded Ornamental Tube Mirror Polished 600 Grit | 1⁄2" - 4" | 30mm - 50mm |
| Welded Tube Satin polished 320 Grit | 1⁄2" - 2" | 16mm - 50mm |
| Hygienic Tube - Welded, annealed, polished BA, descaled | 3⁄4" - 4" (16swg) | - |
| Hygienic Tube - Welded, polished, descaled | 1" - 3" (1.5mm wall) | - |
316L Sheet
Polished sheet sizes are for mirror and super mirror finishes. Polished Sheet options available: 240 Silicon, 240 Grit and various coating including Fiber Optic Laser for one or two sides.
| Product Form | Sheet Sizes | Thicknesses |
| Polished Sheet | 2000 x 1000 | 0.7mm - 3.0mm |
| Polished Sheet | 2500 x 1250 | 0.7mm - 6.0mm |
| Polished Sheet | 3000 x 1500 | 1.0mm - 6.0mm |
| Polished Sheet (Circle) | 2500 x 1250 | 0.7mm - 1.5mm |
| Sheet Cold Rolled | 2500 x 1250 | 4.0mm - 6.0mm |
| Sheet Cold Rolled | 3000 x 1500 | 4.0mm - 6.0mm |
| Sheet Cold Rolled | 4000 x 2000 | 2.0mm - 6.0mm |
| CPP Plate ID Finish | 2000 x 1000 | 3.0mm - 6.0mm |
| CPP Plate ID Finish | 2500 x 1250 | 3.0mm - 12.0mm |
| CPP Plate ID Finish | 3000 x 1500 | 3.0mm - 12.0mm |
| CPP Plate ID Finish | 4000 x 1500 | 10.0mm - 12.0mm |
| CPP Plate ID Finish | 4000 x 2000 | 2.0mm - 12.0mm |
| Quarto Plate ID Finish | - | 5" - 125" |
PLEASE NOTE
If you do not see what you are looking for, please contact your local service centre with your specific requirements.
Related Specifications
Stainless steel grade 1.4404/316L also corresponds to the following designations but may not be a direct equivalent:
- 00Cr17Ni14Mo2
- SUS316L
- S31603
- X2CrNiMo17-12-2
- 1.4404
- 316S13
- 316S11
Properties
Chemical Composition
361L Stainless Steel Steel
EN 10088-2
| Chemical Element | % Present |
| Carbon (C) | 0.00 - 0.03 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.50 - 18.50 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.00 - 2.50 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.00 - 1.00 |
| Phosphorous (P) | 0.00 - 0.05 |
| Sulphur (S) | 0.00 - 0.02 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 10.00 - 13.00 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.00 - 2.00 |
| Nitrogen (N) | 0.00 - 0.11 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
Mechanical Properties
Bar & Section Up to 160mm Dia/Thickness
EN 10088-3
| Mechanical Property | Value |
| Proof Stress | 200 Min MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 500 to 700 MPa |
| Elongation A50 mm | 40 Min % |
| Hardness Brinell | 215 Max HB |
Sheet Up to 8mm Thick
EN 10088-2
| Mechanical Property | Value |
| Proof Stress | 240 Min MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 530 to 680 MPa |
| Elongation A50 mm | 40 Min % |
Plate From 8mm to 75mm Thick
EN 10088-2
| Mechanical Property | Value |
| Proof Stress | 220 Min MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 520 to 670 MPa |
| Elongation A50 mm | 45 Min % |
General Physical Properties
| Physical Property | Value |
| Density | 8.0 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 1400 °C |
| Thermal Expansion | 15.9 x 10-6/K |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 193 GPa |
| Thermal Conductivity | 16.3 W/m.K |
| Electrical Resistivity | 0.74 x 10-6 Ω .m |
Applications of 316L Stainless Steel
316L stainless steel is a low-carbon molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel known for its excellent corrosion resistance, especially in chloride-rich environments. Its superior corrosion resistance and good mechanical properties make it ideal for demanding industrial and chemical applications.
1. Chemical and Petrochemical Industry
Reactors, tanks, and piping handling corrosive chemicals
Heat exchangers and valves exposed to aggressive environments
Process equipment in acids, chlorides, and alkalis
2. Food and Pharmaceutical Industry
Food processing and handling equipment
Dairy and brewing equipment
Pharmaceutical and medical processing vessels
Hygienic piping systems and fittings
3. Marine and Coastal Applications
Boat and ship components exposed to seawater
Marine fasteners, valves, and pumps
Coastal architectural features and handrails
4. Architectural and Construction Applications
Exterior cladding and panels in corrosive or polluted environments
Structural components requiring durability and corrosion resistance
Roofing, wall panels, and decorative trim
5. Medical and Surgical Applications
Surgical instruments and implants
Sterile processing equipment
Equipment in environments requiring corrosion resistance and hygiene
6. Other Industrial Applications
Springs, fasteners, and precision components
Chemical storage tanks and piping systems
Equipment for desalination and wastewater treatment
Summary
316L stainless steel is widely used in applications where corrosion resistance, weldability, and hygienic performance are critical. Its low carbon content and molybdenum addition make it suitable for chemical, food, pharmaceutical, marine, and architectural applications, especially in chloride-rich or corrosive environments.
Characteristics of 316L Stainless Steel
316L stainless steel is a low-carbon, molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel that offers excellent corrosion resistance, high strength, and good formability, making it suitable for demanding industrial and chemical environments.
1. Corrosion Resistance
Excellent resistance to general corrosion, especially in chloride-rich environments such as seawater or de-icing salts.
Low carbon content prevents sensitization and intergranular corrosion in welded areas.
Resistant to oxidation and pitting in aggressive chemical environments.
2. Mechanical Properties
Good tensile strength and toughness, even at elevated or sub-zero temperatures.
Work-hardens moderately during cold forming, allowing enhanced strength when required.
Maintains good mechanical properties in welded and cold-worked conditions.
3. Fabrication and Formability
Excellent cold and hot formability for a wide range of components.
Can be easily rolled, bent, drawn, and stamped.
Low carbon content ensures corrosion resistance is maintained after forming and welding.
4. Weldability
Excellent weldability with common methods such as TIG (GTAW), MIG (GMAW), and resistance welding.
Post-weld annealing is usually unnecessary due to low carbon content, preventing chromium carbide precipitation.
5. Heat Resistance
Suitable for continuous service in moderate high temperatures (~870°C / 1600°F).
Maintains corrosion resistance and mechanical properties under intermittent high-temperature exposure.
6. Applications Leveraging Characteristics
Chemical and petrochemical equipment
Food and pharmaceutical processing
Marine and coastal environments
Architectural structures and exterior cladding
Medical instruments and surgical devices
Summary
316L stainless steel is distinguished by superior corrosion resistance, low carbon content, excellent weldability, and good mechanical performance. These characteristics make it ideal for applications in chloride-rich, chemical, marine, and hygienic environments, where durability, hygiene, and strength are critical.
Additional Information
Weldability
Weldability of 316L Stainless Steel
316L stainless steel is a low-carbon, molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel known for its excellent weldability. Its low carbon content minimizes chromium carbide precipitation, preventing intergranular corrosion in welded areas and making it ideal for critical applications.
1. Compatible Welding Processes
TIG (GTAW): Ideal for thin sections and precise welds
MIG (GMAW): Efficient for thicker sections and industrial production
Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW): Suitable for field applications
Resistance Welding: Spot and seam welding for sheet and thin components
2. Low Carbon Benefits
Low carbon content (<0.03%) reduces the risk of sensitization in the heat-affected zone (HAZ).
Maintains corrosion resistance in welded and post-welded components without the need for post-weld solution annealing.
3. Filler Material Recommendations
Use matching fillers such as ER316L to maintain corrosion resistance and mechanical properties.
Low-carbon fillers are preferred for critical applications or thick sections.
4. Heat Input and Distortion
Austenitic stainless steels have high thermal expansion, which may cause distortion.
Moderate heat input, careful sequencing, and proper fixturing minimize warping.
Intermittent tack welding can help maintain dimensional stability.
5. Post-Weld Treatment
Post-weld solution annealing is typically unnecessary due to the low carbon content.
Stress relief annealing may be applied in high-temperature service or where dimensional stability is critical.
6. Applications Leveraging Weldability
Chemical and pharmaceutical process equipment
Pressure vessels, tanks, and piping systems
Marine and coastal equipment
Architectural cladding and structural assemblies
Medical and surgical equipment
Summary
316L stainless steel offers excellent weldability thanks to its low carbon content and molybdenum alloying. It allows for strong, corrosion-resistant welded joints with minimal post-weld treatment, making it ideal for industrial, marine, chemical, and hygienic applications.
Fabrication
Fabrication of 316L Stainless Steel
316L stainless steel is a low-carbon, molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel widely used in industries requiring corrosion resistance, strength, and formability. It can be fabricated using conventional metalworking processes with proper care to preserve its corrosion-resistant properties.
1. Forming
Cold Forming:
Excellent for bending, rolling, deep drawing, and stamping
Work hardens moderately; intermediate annealing may be needed for extensive forming
Hot Forming:
Can be performed at 1010–1175°C (1850–2150°F) for thick or complex parts
Produces uniform mechanical properties and reduces work hardening
2. Cutting and Shearing
Can be cut with saws, shears, laser, or waterjet
Sharp tools and proper feeds minimize work hardening and achieve clean edges
3. Machining
Moderately difficult to machine due to toughness and work hardening
Carbide tools preferred for high-speed cutting
Use of coolants or cutting fluids helps control heat and tool wear
4. Welding
Excellent weldability with TIG, MIG, SMAW, or resistance welding
ER316L filler recommended for maintaining corrosion resistance and mechanical properties
Post-weld annealing is generally not required, thanks to low carbon content
5. Cold Working
Increases strength through work hardening
Extensive cold work may require solution annealing to restore ductility for further processing
6. Surface Finishing
Available in various finishes such as 2B (mill finish), BA (bright annealed), and polished surfaces
Cold working may require additional finishing for aesthetic or corrosion resistance purposes
7. Applications Leveraging Fabrication
Chemical, petrochemical, and food processing equipment
Pressure vessels, piping systems, and storage tanks
Marine and coastal structural components
Medical instruments and surgical equipment
Architectural panels and cladding
Summary
316L stainless steel is highly versatile and easy to fabricate, offering excellent cold and hot formability, welding, and machining properties. Its low carbon content and molybdenum addition ensure that corrosion resistance is maintained throughout fabrication, making it ideal for industrial, marine, chemical, and hygienic applications.
Hot Working
Hot Working of 316L Stainless Steel
316L stainless steel is a low-carbon, molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel with excellent hot workability, allowing it to be formed, rolled, or forged at elevated temperatures. Hot working reduces work hardening, improves ductility, and ensures uniform mechanical properties.
1. Recommended Hot Working Temperature
Typical range: 1010–1175°C (1850–2150°F)
Exceeding this range may cause grain growth, reducing toughness.
Working below this range increases flow stress, raising the risk of cracking.
2. Suitable Hot Working Processes
Hot Rolling: For sheets, plates, strips, and structural components
Hot Forging: For high-strength or complex-shaped parts
Hot Extrusion: For rods, tubes, and profiles
Hot Pressing/Forming: For thick or large components that are difficult to cold-work
3. Advantages of Hot Working
Reduces work hardening compared to cold working
Enhances ductility and toughness
Produces uniform grain structure and mechanical properties
Enables fabrication of large, thick, or complex components
4. Post-Hot Working Treatments
Annealing may be applied to relieve residual stresses and restore ductility.
Pickling or passivation enhances surface corrosion resistance after hot working.
5. Applications Leveraging Hot Working
Industrial machinery components
Chemical and petrochemical vessels and piping
Marine and coastal structural parts
Large sheets, plates, or complex forms requiring elevated-temperature shaping
Summary
316L stainless steel demonstrates excellent hot workability, making it suitable for rolling, forging, extrusion, and forming at 1010–1175°C. Hot working improves ductility, reduces work hardening, and ensures uniform mechanical properties while preserving corrosion resistance, making it ideal for industrial, chemical, marine, and structural applications.
Heat Resistance
Heat Resistance of 316L Stainless Steel
316L stainless steel is a low-carbon, molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel with good high-temperature properties, suitable for moderate elevated-temperature service. Its low carbon content helps maintain corrosion resistance and structural integrity during prolonged heat exposure.
1. Continuous Service Temperature
Suitable for continuous service in oxidizing atmospheres up to ~870°C (1600°F).
Prolonged exposure above this temperature can cause scaling and slight reduction in mechanical properties.
2. Intermittent Exposure
Can tolerate intermittent heating up to ~925°C (1700°F) without significant surface degradation.
Suitable for components exposed to occasional thermal cycles.
3. Oxidation Resistance
Forms a protective chromium oxide layer in oxidizing atmospheres.
Maintains corrosion resistance under moderate high-temperature conditions.
Not recommended for strongly oxidizing or sulfidizing environments at very high temperatures.
4. Thermal Effects on Mechanical Properties
Retains good tensile strength and ductility at moderate temperatures.
Cold-worked material may lose some work-hardening effects after prolonged heat exposure.
Grain growth may occur if exposed to excessive heat without proper solution treatment.
5. Applications Related to Heat Resistance
Heat exchangers, boiler components, and furnace parts
Tanks and piping in moderate high-temperature environments
Food, chemical, and pharmaceutical processing equipment
Welded assemblies operating under elevated temperatures
6. Comparison to Other Austenitic Grades
Heat resistance is slightly lower than 321 or 347 stainless steels for long-term high-temperature service.
316L is preferred where corrosion resistance, especially against chlorides, and weldability are more critical than extreme high-temperature strength.
Summary
316L stainless steel provides good heat resistance, suitable for continuous service up to ~870°C and intermittent exposure up to ~925°C. Its low carbon content preserves corrosion resistance and minimizes sensitization, making it ideal for welded assemblies and moderately high-temperature industrial, chemical, and marine applications.
Machinability
Machinability of 316L Stainless Steel
316L stainless steel is a low-carbon, molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel that is moderately difficult to machine due to its toughness, work-hardening tendency, and low thermal conductivity. Proper tooling, cutting parameters, and lubrication are essential to achieve efficient machining and high-quality surfaces.
1. Work-Hardening Behavior
316L exhibits significant work hardening during cutting.
Hardened surfaces increase cutting forces and accelerate tool wear.
Smooth, continuous cutting helps reduce work-hardening effects.
2. Tooling Recommendations
Carbide tools are preferred for high-speed and heavy-duty machining.
High-speed steel (HSS) tools can be used at lower speeds for light or medium operations.
Tools with positive rake angles reduce cutting forces and improve surface finish.
3. Cutting Speeds and Feeds
Slower cutting speeds compared to carbon steel are recommended.
Moderate to heavy feeds maintain continuous chip flow and prevent local work-hardening.
Avoid dwelling or stopping on the workpiece to prevent hard spots.
4. Cooling and Lubrication
Low thermal conductivity causes heat buildup at the cutting zone.
Use flood coolant or cutting fluids to reduce heat, extend tool life, and improve surface finish.
High-pressure lubrication can help evacuate chips efficiently.
5. Chip Formation
Chips are tough and stringy, which may complicate removal.
Use chip breakers or special inserts to manage chips effectively during machining.
6. Surface Finish
Achievable with sharp tools, proper feeds, and adequate cooling.
Work-hardening areas may require finishing passes to achieve desired surface quality.
Summary
316L stainless steel has moderate machinability, requiring careful selection of tools, speeds, feeds, and cooling methods to counteract work-hardening and heat buildup. When properly managed, high-quality surfaces and dimensional accuracy are achievable, making 316L suitable for chemical, food, pharmaceutical, marine, and industrial applications.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion Resistance of 316L Stainless Steel
316L stainless steel is a low-carbon, molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel renowned for its excellent corrosion resistance in a wide range of aggressive environments. Its low carbon content helps prevent chromium carbide precipitation, maintaining corrosion resistance in welded and heat-affected areas.
1. General Corrosion Resistance
Highly resistant to oxidation and general corrosion in atmospheric, industrial, and mildly corrosive environments.
Suitable for food, chemical, and pharmaceutical applications where hygiene and durability are important.
2. Chloride and Pitting Resistance
Superior resistance to chloride-induced pitting and crevice corrosion compared to 304 and 304L stainless steels.
Ideal for marine environments, coastal structures, and chemical processing.
Less resistant than higher molybdenum grades like 317L, but sufficient for most industrial and marine applications.
3. Resistance to Intergranular Corrosion
Low carbon content (<0.03%) prevents chromium carbide precipitation during welding.
Minimizes sensitization and maintains corrosion resistance in welded or heat-affected zones.
Eliminates the need for post-weld solution annealing in most applications.
4. High-Temperature Corrosion
Suitable for moderate high-temperature service (continuous up to ~870°C / 1600°F).
Maintains corrosion resistance in oxidizing atmospheres.
Not recommended for strongly oxidizing or sulfidizing environments at very high temperatures.
5. Applications Leveraging Corrosion Resistance
Chemical and petrochemical vessels, tanks, and piping
Food and pharmaceutical processing equipment
Marine and coastal equipment and structures
Architectural cladding exposed to harsh environmental conditions
Medical and surgical equipment
6. Comparison to Other Austenitic Grades
Better pitting and chloride resistance than 304/304L
Slightly less resistant than 317L or duplex grades in extremely aggressive chloride environments
Excellent choice for welded assemblies and harsh environmental exposure
Summary
316L stainless steel offers outstanding corrosion resistance, especially in chloride-rich, chemical, marine, and welded applications. Its low carbon content and molybdenum addition ensure durability and reliability in harsh and hygienic environments, making it one of the most widely used austenitic stainless steels for industrial, marine, and food-processing applications.
Heat Treatment
Heat Treatment of 316L Stainless Steel
316L stainless steel is a low-carbon, molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel that is not hardened by heat treatment. Heat treatment is primarily used to restore ductility, relieve residual stresses, and maintain corrosion resistance, rather than to increase hardness.
1. Solution Annealing
Purpose:
Restore ductility after cold working
Relieve residual stresses from forming or welding
Dissolve any chromium carbides formed in improper heating
Temperature Range: 1010–1120°C (1850–2050°F)
Cooling: Rapid air or water quenching to maintain a fully austenitic structure
Effect:
Returns mechanical properties to the annealed condition
Preserves corrosion resistance due to low carbon content
2. Stress Relief
Purpose: Reduce residual stresses from forming, bending, or welding
Temperature Range: 450–650°C (840–1200°F)
Effect: Minimizes distortion and reduces risk of stress corrosion cracking without significantly altering mechanical properties
3. Cold-Worked Condition Considerations
Cold working increases strength but decreases ductility.
Intermediate solution annealing may be applied to restore formability for further fabrication steps.
4. Post-Weld Heat Treatment
Generally not required for corrosion resistance due to low carbon content (<0.03%).
Stress relief annealing may be applied in high-temperature service or dimension-sensitive welded assemblies.
5. Limitations
Heat treatment does not significantly increase hardness; 316L relies on cold working for strengthening.
Prolonged exposure to temperatures above ~500°C may reduce cold work strengthening effects slightly.
Summary
Heat treatment of 316L stainless steel is primarily for stress relief, ductility restoration, and preservation of corrosion resistance. Solution annealing and controlled stress relief ensure optimal mechanical and chemical performance, making 316L ideal for welded, cold-worked, and moderately high-temperature applications.
Cold Working
Cold Working of 316L Stainless Steel
316L stainless steel is a low-carbon, molybdenum-bearing austenitic stainless steel with excellent cold-working properties. Cold working increases strength and hardness through work hardening while maintaining good corrosion resistance and ductility.
1. Work-Hardening Behavior
316L work-hardens significantly during cold deformation.
Strength and hardness increase, while ductility decreases as deformation progresses.
Excessive cold working may require intermediate annealing to restore formability.
2. Common Cold Working Processes
Rolling: Sheets, strips, and plates
Drawing: Tubes, rods, and wires
Bending and Forming: Structural components, brackets, and clips
Stamping and Deep Drawing: Industrial and food-processing parts
3. Mechanical Properties Control
Cold working allows adjustment of tensile strength, yield strength, and hardness.
Extensive cold work may require solution annealing to restore ductility for further fabrication.
4. Effect on Corrosion Resistance
Low carbon content (<0.03%) prevents chromium carbide precipitation, maintaining corrosion resistance after cold work.
Resistant to intergranular corrosion in welded or heavily worked areas.
5. Post-Forming Considerations
Solution annealing can relieve stresses and restore ductility if multiple cold-working steps are planned.
Cold working may slightly induce magnetism due to minor martensitic transformation, typically negligible.
6. Applications Leveraging Cold Work
Springs, clips, and fasteners
Structural components requiring higher strength
Tubes, rods, and wires for chemical and food-processing equipment
Formed components requiring corrosion resistance and strength
Summary
316L stainless steel exhibits excellent cold-working characteristics, allowing increased strength through work hardening while preserving corrosion resistance. Proper management of deformation and intermediate annealing ensures high-quality, durable components for industrial, chemical, food-processing, marine, and structural applications.
