Stainless Steel, Austenitic
316H Stainless Steel (S31609)
A high carbon modification of alloy 316 developed for use in elevated temperature service.
The alloy has higher strength at elevated temperatures and is used for structural and pressure vessel applications at temperatures above 932°F (500°C). The higher carbon content of 316H also delivers higher tensile and yield strength than 316/316L and its austenitic structure provides excellent toughness down to cryogenic temperatures.
316H stainless steel is a high-carbon, high-temperature variant of 316, combining enhanced tensile strength at elevated temperatures with excellent corrosion resistance. It is widely used in power generation, chemical processing, aerospace, and industrial applications where both high strength and corrosion resistance are essential.
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Related Specifications
- 07Cr17Ni12Mo2
- S31609
- SUS316H
- X5CrNiMo17-12-2
- 1.4436
- 1.4919
Properties
Chemical Composition
316H Stainless Steel Bar
EN 10269:2013
| Chemical Element | % Present |
| Carbon (C) | 0.04 - 0.08 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.50 - 18.50 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 2.00 - 2.50 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.00 - 1.00 |
| Phosphorous (P) | 0.00 - 0.04 |
| Sulphur (S) | 0.00 - 0.02 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 10.00 - 13.00 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.00 - 2.00 |
| Nitrogen (N) | 0.00 - 0.10 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
Mechanical Properties
316H Stainless Steel Bar Up to 160mm
EN 10269:2013
| Mechanical Property | Value |
| Proof Stress | 205 Min MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 490 to 690 MPa |
| Elongation A50 mm | 35 % |
General Physical Properties
| Physical Property | Value |
| Density | 8.00 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 316H Stainless Steel
316H stainless steel is a high-carbon austenitic stainless steel designed for high-temperature applications where strength and corrosion resistance are critical. Its high carbon content gives it superior tensile strength at elevated temperatures, making it ideal for welded and high-stress components.
1. Power Generation
Boilers, superheaters, and steam piping in power plants
Pressure vessels and heat exchangers exposed to high-temperature steam
Components that require high creep and tensile strength
2. Chemical and Petrochemical Industry
Reactors, vessels, and piping handling corrosive or high-temperature chemicals
Heat exchangers and condensers operating under elevated temperature conditions
Equipment exposed to oxidizing and mildly reducing environments
3. Aerospace and High-Temperature Engineering
Exhaust systems, turbocharger components, and high-temperature welded assemblies
Applications where both strength and corrosion resistance at high temperatures are essential
4. Food and Pharmaceutical Processing
High-temperature sterilization equipment
Heat exchangers and vessels in hygienic applications where corrosion resistance is crucial
5. Marine and Offshore Applications
Components exposed to elevated-temperature seawater or coastal atmospheres
Pump shafts, valves, and fittings where high strength is needed under corrosion exposure
Summary
316H stainless steel is widely used in high-temperature industrial, chemical, marine, aerospace, and food-processing applications. Its high carbon content and excellent corrosion resistance make it suitable for pressure vessels, boilers, piping, heat exchangers, and welded assemblies operating under demanding conditions.
Characteristics of 316H Stainless Steel
316H stainless steel is a high-carbon, austenitic stainless steel designed for high-temperature service. It retains the excellent corrosion resistance of standard 316 stainless steel while offering enhanced tensile strength at elevated temperatures due to its higher carbon content.
1. High-Temperature Strength
Increased carbon content (typically 0.04–0.10%) provides higher tensile and creep strength than 316 or 316L at elevated temperatures.
Suitable for continuous service at temperatures up to ~800°C (1470°F).
Maintains mechanical integrity under high thermal stress.
2. Corrosion Resistance
Excellent resistance to general corrosion, oxidation, and mildly reducing chemicals.
Performs well in oxidizing environments such as atmospheric, chemical, and marine conditions.
Retains corrosion resistance after welding, although stress relief may be recommended for high-temperature applications.
3. Mechanical Properties
High tensile strength and yield strength compared to standard 316 stainless steel.
Good ductility and toughness, even at elevated temperatures.
Cold working improves strength further but reduces ductility.
4. Fabrication and Weldability
Weldable using TIG, MIG, and SMAW processes.
Stress relief after welding is sometimes recommended to minimize thermal stresses in high-temperature applications.
Can be hot- or cold-worked with proper process controls.
5. Applications Leveraging Characteristics
High-temperature pressure vessels, boilers, and piping
Chemical and petrochemical reactors and heat exchangers
Aerospace and high-temperature industrial components
Food and pharmaceutical equipment requiring both corrosion resistance and high-temperature strength
Summary
316H stainless steel combines the high-temperature strength of a high-carbon austenitic steel with the excellent corrosion resistance of 316 stainless steel. It is particularly suited for pressure vessels, high-temperature piping, chemical equipment, and welded assemblies operating under demanding thermal and corrosive environments.
Additional Information
Weldability
Weldability of 316H Stainless Steel
316H stainless steel, a high-carbon austenitic stainless steel, is generally weldable using conventional methods, though care must be taken due to its higher carbon content, which can increase the risk of sensitization and intergranular corrosion in the heat-affected zone.
1. Suitable Welding Methods
TIG (GTAW): Ideal for precise welds and thin sections
MIG (GMAW): Suitable for thicker sections and industrial applications
SMAW (Stick Welding): Common for maintenance and field welding
Resistance Welding: Spot and seam welding for sheet metal applications
2. Considerations Due to High Carbon
Higher carbon content increases the risk of chromium carbide precipitation during welding.
Post-weld solution annealing or stress relief is recommended for high-temperature service to maintain corrosion resistance and mechanical properties.
Use matching or slightly higher alloy filler metals (ER316 or ER316H) to reduce sensitization risk.
3. Heat Input and Distortion Control
Austenitic stainless steels expand more than carbon steels during welding.
Use moderate heat input and proper welding sequence to minimize distortion and residual stresses.
Avoid prolonged welding in one area to reduce localized sensitization.
4. Applications Leveraging Weldability
High-temperature piping, boilers, and pressure vessels
Chemical processing reactors and heat exchangers
Aerospace and power generation components
Food and pharmaceutical processing equipment
Summary
316H stainless steel is weldable with standard techniques, but the high carbon content requires careful attention to heat input, filler selection, and post-weld treatment. When properly welded, it maintains high-temperature strength, corrosion resistance, and structural integrity, making it suitable for pressure vessels, chemical, and high-temperature applications.
Fabrication
Fabrication of 316H Stainless Steel
316H stainless steel is a high-carbon austenitic stainless steel designed for high-temperature applications. Its fabrication combines standard austenitic stainless steel techniques with special considerations due to the elevated carbon content, which affects weldability, work hardening, and heat treatment.
1. Forming
Cold Forming:
Suitable for bending, rolling, deep drawing, and stamping
Work hardens moderately; extensive deformation may require intermediate solution annealing to restore ductility
Hot Forming:
Recommended for thicker sections or complex shapes
Typical range: 1010–1175°C (1850–2150°F)
Produces uniform mechanical properties and reduces work hardening
2. Cutting and Shearing
Can be cut with laser, waterjet, plasma, or mechanical methods
Sharp tools and proper feeds minimize work hardening and surface defects
3. Machining
Moderate machinability due to toughness and work-hardening tendency
Carbide tools preferred for heavy-duty or high-speed operations
Coolants and lubricants reduce heat, improve surface finish, and extend tool life
4. Welding
Can be welded using TIG, MIG, SMAW, and resistance welding
Higher carbon content increases risk of sensitization, so post-weld solution annealing or stress relief may be needed for high-temperature service
Use matching or slightly higher alloy filler metals (ER316H) for optimal corrosion resistance
5. Cold and Hot Working
Cold working increases strength via work hardening but decreases ductility
Hot working (forging, rolling) restores ductility and produces uniform grain structure
Proper process planning ensures both mechanical performance and corrosion resistance
6. Surface Finishing
Standard finishes: 2B, BA, or polished
Post-fabrication pickling or passivation may be applied to restore surface corrosion resistance
7. Applications Leveraging Fabrication
High-temperature pressure vessels, boilers, and piping
Chemical reactors and heat exchangers
Aerospace and industrial high-temperature components
Food and pharmaceutical equipment requiring high strength and corrosion resistance
Summary
316H stainless steel can be fabricated using standard forming, machining, and welding methods, but its high carbon content requires careful handling to prevent sensitization and maintain corrosion resistance. Proper hot/cold working, welding procedures, and heat treatment make it ideal for high-temperature and demanding industrial applications.
Hot Working
Hot Working of 316H Stainless Steel
316H stainless steel is a high-carbon austenitic stainless steel designed for high-temperature applications. Hot working is used to form or shape thick or complex components while maintaining mechanical strength and corrosion resistance.
1. Recommended Hot Working Temperature
Typical temperature range: 1010–1175°C (1850–2150°F)
Above this range, grain growth may occur, reducing toughness
Below this range, flow stress increases, making forming more difficult
2. Suitable Hot Working Processes
Hot Rolling: Plates, sheets, and structural components
Hot Forging: High-strength or complex-shaped parts
Hot Extrusion: Rods, tubes, and profiles
Hot Pressing/Forming: Thick or large components that cannot be cold-worked
3. Advantages of Hot Working
Reduces work hardening compared to cold working
Improves ductility and toughness
Produces uniform grain structure and mechanical properties
Enables fabrication of large or complex components
4. Post-Hot Working Treatments
Solution annealing may be applied to relieve residual stresses and restore ductility
Pickling or passivation enhances surface corrosion resistance if needed
5. Applications Leveraging Hot Working
Pressure vessels, boilers, and piping in power plants
Heat exchangers and chemical reactors
Aerospace and industrial components subjected to high temperatures and stress
Summary
316H stainless steel exhibits excellent hot workability, allowing shaping and forming at 1010–1175°C. Hot working improves ductility, toughness, and uniform mechanical properties while preserving corrosion resistance, making it ideal for pressure vessels, chemical, high-temperature, and industrial applications.
Heat Resistance
Heat Resistance of 316H Stainless Steel
316H stainless steel is a high-carbon austenitic stainless steel designed for high-temperature applications. Its increased carbon content provides enhanced tensile strength at elevated temperatures, making it suitable for pressure vessels, boilers, and high-temperature piping.
1. Continuous Service Temperature
Suitable for continuous operation up to ~800°C (1470°F)
Maintains mechanical properties, tensile strength, and creep resistance at elevated temperatures
Prolonged exposure above this temperature may slightly reduce ductility or cause surface scaling
2. Intermittent or Cyclic Exposure
Can tolerate short-term exposures above 800°C without significant surface degradation
Suitable for thermal cycling applications in industrial and power generation equipment
3. Oxidation Resistance
Forms a protective chromium oxide layer that resists oxidation and scaling
Performs well in industrial furnaces, boilers, and heat exchangers
Not suitable for strongly sulfidizing or highly oxidizing atmospheres at extreme temperatures
4. Mechanical Properties at High Temperature
Retains tensile strength, creep resistance, and ductility
Hot-worked or cold-worked areas maintain good mechanical stability after proper heat treatment
Grain growth can occur if exposed to excessive heat without solution annealing
5. Applications Leveraging Heat Resistance
High-temperature pressure vessels and boiler components
Chemical and petrochemical reactors and heat exchangers
Aerospace components exposed to elevated temperatures
Food and pharmaceutical processing equipment requiring high-temperature service
Summary
316H stainless steel offers excellent high-temperature performance, with continuous service up to ~800°C. Its high carbon content ensures superior tensile strength and creep resistance, while maintaining corrosion resistance in welded and high-temperature applications, making it ideal for power generation, chemical, industrial, and aerospace environments.
Machinability
Machinability of 316H Stainless Steel
316H stainless steel is a high-carbon austenitic stainless steel that exhibits moderate machinability. Its toughness, work-hardening tendency, and relatively low thermal conductivity require careful tool selection, cutting speeds, and lubrication to achieve efficient machining with good surface finish.
1. Work-Hardening Behavior
316H work-hardens rapidly during machining
Hardened surfaces increase cutting forces and accelerate tool wear
Smooth, continuous cutting reduces localized work hardening
2. Tooling Recommendations
Carbide tools are preferred for high-speed or heavy-duty machining
High-speed steel (HSS) tools can be used for lighter cuts or slower operations
Positive rake angles help reduce cutting forces and improve surface finish
3. Cutting Speeds and Feeds
Use slower cutting speeds compared with carbon steels
Moderate to heavy feeds maintain continuous chip flow and prevent hard spots
Avoid stopping or dwelling on the workpiece to prevent localized work hardening
4. Cooling and Lubrication
Use flood coolant or cutting fluid to minimize heat buildup
High-pressure lubrication helps evacuate chips efficiently
Reduces tool wear and improves surface finish
5. Chip Formation
Chips are tough, stringy, and sticky
Use chip breakers or controlled feeds to manage chip formation
6. Surface Finish
Achievable with sharp tools, proper feeds, and adequate cooling
Work-hardened areas may require finishing passes for a smooth surface
Summary
316H stainless steel has moderate machinability, requiring careful tool selection, cutting parameters, and cooling. Proper machining ensures high-precision components with good surface finish and durability, suitable for high-temperature, chemical, marine, and industrial applications.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion Resistance of 316H Stainless Steel
316H stainless steel is a high-carbon austenitic stainless steel designed for high-temperature and corrosive environments. Its composition provides excellent general corrosion resistance while maintaining strength at elevated temperatures.
1. General Corrosion Resistance
Resistant to oxidation, atmospheric corrosion, and mildly corrosive chemicals
Performs well in industrial, marine, and chemical environments
Maintains corrosion resistance even after welding or high-temperature service
2. Intergranular Corrosion
The higher carbon content slightly increases sensitization risk during welding
Post-weld solution annealing or stress-relief minimizes the risk of intergranular corrosion
Suitable for welded components with proper heat treatment
3. Pitting and Crevice Corrosion
Exhibits good resistance to chloride-induced corrosion
Better than 304/304L but slightly less than 316L in severe chloride conditions
Suitable for marine, coastal, and mildly aggressive chemical environments
4. High-Temperature Corrosion
Resistant to oxidation and scaling at elevated temperatures (continuous service up to ~800°C)
Performs well in steam, hot gases, and chemical processing environments
Not suitable for strongly sulfidizing or highly oxidizing atmospheres at extreme temperatures
5. Applications Leveraging Corrosion Resistance
High-temperature pressure vessels, boilers, and piping
Chemical reactors, heat exchangers, and condensers
Marine components exposed to elevated temperatures
Food and pharmaceutical processing equipment
Summary
316H stainless steel combines excellent high-temperature strength with good corrosion resistance, especially in welded and industrial applications. Proper post-weld heat treatment ensures durability, making it ideal for power generation, chemical, marine, and industrial applications.
Heat Treatment
Heat Treatment of 316H Stainless Steel
316H stainless steel is a high-carbon austenitic stainless steel. Like other austenitic stainless steels, it is not hardenable by conventional heat treatment. Heat treatment is primarily used to relieve stresses, restore ductility, and maintain corrosion resistance, particularly after welding or cold working.
1. Solution Annealing
Purpose:
Restore ductility after cold working or forming
Relieve residual stresses
Dissolve any undesired chromium carbides formed during high-temperature exposure
Temperature Range: 1010–1120°C (1850–2050°F)
Cooling: Rapid air or water quench to preserve austenitic structure
Effect:
Restores mechanical properties
Maintains corrosion resistance due to titanium or high-carbon stabilization
2. Stress Relief Annealing
Purpose: Reduce residual stresses from forming, bending, or welding
Temperature Range: 450–650°C (840–1200°F)
Effect:
Minimizes distortion
Reduces risk of stress corrosion cracking without significantly altering mechanical properties
3. Post-Weld Heat Treatment
Generally recommended for high-temperature service applications
Relieves welding-induced stresses and reduces risk of sensitization
Helps maintain mechanical strength and corrosion resistance
4. Cold-Worked Condition Considerations
Cold working increases strength but decreases ductility
Intermediate solution annealing may be applied to restore formability for further fabrication
5. Limitations
Heat treatment does not significantly increase hardness
Excessive exposure at elevated temperatures may reduce cold-work strengthening effects slightly
Summary
Heat treatment of 316H stainless steel is primarily for stress relief, ductility restoration, and maintaining corrosion resistance. Proper solution annealing and stress relief ensure optimal mechanical properties for pressure vessels, boilers, chemical equipment, and high-temperature applications.
Cold Working
Cold Working of 316H Stainless Steel
316H stainless steel is a high-carbon austenitic stainless steel with good cold-working characteristics. Cold working increases strength and hardness through work hardening while maintaining good corrosion resistance and ductility, provided it is managed carefully.
1. Work-Hardening Behavior
316H stainless steel work-hardens moderately to rapidly during cold deformation.
Strength and hardness increase, while ductility decreases as deformation progresses.
Extensive cold working may require solution annealing to restore ductility before further fabrication.
2. 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, food-processing, and chemical equipment components
3. Mechanical Property Control
Cold working allows adjustment of tensile strength, yield strength, and hardness.
Intermediate solution annealing can restore ductility for further forming operations.
4. Effect on Corrosion Resistance
High carbon content slightly increases sensitization risk, but proper stress relief or solution annealing after cold work preserves intergranular corrosion resistance.
Suitable for components exposed to chemical, marine, or high-temperature environments.
5. Post-Forming Considerations
Solution annealing may be applied to relieve stresses and restore ductility if multiple cold-working steps are planned.
Cold working may induce slight magnetism due to minor strain-induced martensite formation.
6. Applications Leveraging Cold Work
Springs, clips, and fasteners requiring higher strength
Structural components with both strength and corrosion resistance
Tubes, rods, and wires for chemical, marine, and high-temperature equipment
Formed components for food, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications
Summary
316H stainless steel exhibits excellent cold-working properties, allowing increased strength through work hardening while preserving corrosion resistance. Proper management of deformation and heat treatment ensures durable, high-performance components suitable for pressure vessels, chemical, marine, and high-temperature applications.
